Beyond genetics : putting the power of DNA to work in your life /

The science of genetics is being supplanted, in some instances forcibly, by the technology and business of genomics, which is the application of information science and mathematics--and the law of the marketplace--to genetic information. The resulting convergence of "geneware" carries the potential for both good and harm, and is taking place with little public scrutiny or governmental oversight. So says bioethicist McGee, though whether his "user's guide" to this brave new world is intended as a warning or a celebration is not always clear, no doubt because he wishes to alert us to the process and excite us with the possibilities, and to inform us as observers, participants, and consumers (rather than victims?). Though a choppy style of presentation and gaffes such as misidentifying Robert K. Merton as Thomas Merton (!) detract from the force of the arguments, the issues raised (patenting of genes and genetic testing, reproductive technologies, risks of genetically modified organisms) are serious, and this book may help to stimulate more awareness and discussion among the general public. ^BSumming Up: Highly recommended. All levels. L. W. Moore formerly, University of Kentucky

Pitched to readers who take genetics personally, wondering what all those headlines about the Human Genome Project mean for my genome, McGee presents in effect an owner's manual. He anticipates the development of technology born of the marriage between computer power and DNA mapping that will enable the ordinary person to access their personal genome. But McGee, a bioethicist, asks several questions. Do you really want to know what your DNA codes are? Is your physician competent enough to tell you? For most people, their main concern will be whether their DNA harbors genes indicating susceptibility to a disease for themselves or their progeny. And if it does, should you let bio-entrepreneurs have your DNA, so they can develop tests and cures for the disease? Outlining the ethical thickets, including the patenting of genes, McGee gives clear understanding of vital considerations in deciding whether to perform a test, undergo infertility treatment, or chow down on genetically manufactured food. Health-conscious readers will close McGee's book more informed and, perhaps, less worried. --Gilbert Taylor Copyright 2003 Booklist

Prominent bioethicist McGee urges readers to get smart about their DNA before it's too late in this genetic answer to Nicholas Negroponte's Being Digital. For instance, the author writes, though we would never leave our ATM code where someone could read it, we "think nothing of leaving bits of blood and tissue in the emergency room of a major hospital that is sure to conduct research on it." In decades past, questions of genetics were answered by "appeals to natural law theory," and often led to discrimination, injustice and even genocide. But the very notion of heredity has become obsolete in the new world McGee describes; instead, scientists are about to offer reproductive choices beyond our imaginings, cure diseases and feed billions more people-all while making astonishing amounts of money from "our" genes. In rapid-fire chapters packed with references to news stories and scientific studies, McGee outlines new developments in genetic testing, gene therapy and genetically modified food organisms. Just as personal computers have brought the digital revolution into our daily lives, home diagnostic kits will let us (or force us to) take charge of our own genes. "You'll update your medicine cabinet the way you update your computer software," writes McGee. Our food, drugs and children will all be subject to genetic analysis and modification. This book is something of a scattered cautionary lecture, veering off into corporate tactics, legalities and personal anecdotes, but McGee makes his point in the end, offering a heads-up assessment of how advances in genetic research are sure to complicate our lives. (Oct.) Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.