Rationality and the genetic challenge : making people better? /

Hayry (Manchester Univ., UK) analyzes and organizes the various assumptions, values, and rationalities that underlie arguments for and against genetic research and procedures arising from that research, e.g., embryo selection, the creation of "savior siblings," and the (theoretical) possibility of indefinite life extension. This book thoughtfully presents work by major authors along the entire ideological spectrum, including Gilbert Meilaender (Neither Beast Nor God, CH, Feb'10, 47-3080), Leon Kass (Life, Liberty, and the Defense of Dignity, CH, Apr'03, 40-4596), Michael Sandel (The Case against Perfection, CH, Sep'07, 45-0268), and Ronald Green (Babies by Design, CH, Apr'08, 45-4413). The coherent analysis and fair presentation of each thinker's case for and against genetic procedures, testing, and research show how notions of God, community, agency, and the self lead thinkers to different positions on genetic procedures. Hayry presents no new arguments, but his careful readings of various authors and his clear "map" of the assumptions at work in those arguments brings great clarity to a tangle of issues and shows why consensus is so difficult to achieve. This important guide to work on genetics and ethics would be a helpful addition to collections in both bioethics and philosophy. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-level undergraduates through researchers/faculty. A. W. Klink Duke University