Challenging Nature

Challenging Nature

$26.95

SKU: 9780060582678
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Description

Biotechnology is the oldest and most widespread of inventions, providing sustenance for humankind since the beginning of civilization. Until recently, however, its tools were crude and its implementation was opaque. Today new understanding in the life sciences brings both precision and transparency to the process. Modern inventions could alleviate human suffering, feed the world, and, at the same time, stem the tide of earth’s ecological degradation. Yet ironically, biotechnology becomes evermore contentious. On the left, New Age secularists rail against genetically modified crops. On the right, religious Americans want embryo stem-cell research to be a felony. While they share seemingly little beyond mutual contempt, Silver argues that both political camps are driven — consciously or subconsciously — by a fundamental fear of violating a higher spiritual authority, imagined either as the creator God of the Bible, who rules from above, or a vague Mother Nature goddess here on earth.

In Challenging Nature, Silver offers a provocative look at the collision of science, religion, pseudoscience, and politics. A hands-on scientist who has actually manipulated genes, he leaves the laboratory, traveling the globe in what he calls “one scientist’s journey from a cloistered community, in which life is assumed to be combinations of complex molecules and information flow between them, to a world of humanity dominated by soul and spirits, and to the intense chaos of Mother Nature at large.” The result is a fascinating book that could provide a wake-up call for the West, where the economic ramifications of pseudoscience may be enormous: a future in which Asia becomes dominant in biotechnological advances.

“A valuable exposition of the rationalist’s view of the world…He argues eloquently…sound of a battle that will continue.” “Uplifting…His critics will be begging for equal time, and readers may find themselves alternately cheering or arguing…Highly recommended. Silver’s provocative ideas and his graceful prose open new avenues for discussion of the challenges that face science and spirituality.” “This one will make you think, perhaps in realms you’ve avoided. It’s probably worth the effort.” “Lucid and sensible…definitely worth reading and will likely challenge your preconceived notions of what biotechnology is and offers.” “A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology…wise, realistic…a well-crafted argument.”

Additional information

Weight 26 oz
Dimensions 1 × 6 × 9 in