Review by Choice Review
Cole-Turner (Memphis Theological Seminary) explores the religious significance of genetic engineering. He breaks new ground in arguing that the relationship of modern genetic technology to theology rests upon the idea that when we engage in genetic engineering we are participating in both redemption and creation. He suggests that this view confers a value and legitimacy upon biotechnology and allows us to visualize it as something not alien to God, but indeed as an extension of God's work. The research described in this book, funded through the National Institutes of Health Office for Human Genome Research, expands on some of the ideas established in documents recently prepared by the National Council of Churches of Christ, the United Church of Christ, the United Methodist Church, and the World Council of Churches. Useful aspects of the book, in addition to the clarity of its central thesis, are the challenging questions posed throughout and the recommended reading list provided at the end. For theologians, scientists, and others searching for meaningful ways to integrate new technologies with religious doctrine. Advanced undergraduate through faculty. M. Kayhart; Cedar Crest College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
Cole-Turner begins with a summary of developments--since Gregor Mendel's experiments with inheritance in peas, in 1865--in genetics and with a discussion of the ethical questions the latest of these raises. He then engages the thought of theologians such as Paul Ramsey, who objects to artificial insemination with donor sperm as a breach in the "integrity of human parenthood," and Hans Schwarz, who feels that every genetic manipulation raises religious questions and must be thought through in a "Judeo-Christian context." Cole-Turner also considers the positions of various official bodies, such as the Roman Catholic church, which in general looks favorably upon genetic manipulation, or the World Council of Churches, which is troubled by genetic testing for sex selection and by corporate goals attuned to economic gain regardless of ethical issues. Finally, he considers the story of Christianity in relation to technology: its messages both of healing and of redemption point to a cautious endorsement of biotechnology and of "participating in creation." In fact, by cultivating land, by selecting the best seeds and cultivars, and by encouraging certain traits in animals over others, we have been participating in creation all along. A learned, or even dry, account, but one that addresses difficult questions and would make an excellent term-paper source. ~--John Mort
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
Review by Booklist Review
