Redesigning Humans

This is a challenging book that suggests that humans will 'seize control of our evolutionary future' (a very loaded phrase!) and that it will become commonplace to choose our children's genes as the emerging reproductive biology becomes both available and reliable. The author contends that the arrival of safe, reliable germline technology will signal the beginning of human self-design. There will also be competition for designs - not only will a market spring up but also the better-off will be able to pay for the best results - they will have more 'enhanced' children. All this puts in question the meaning of our humanity, as Francis Fukuyama has indicated, and raises all kinds of issues in relation to our spiritual dimension, which is discounted by many of the leading scientists, including the pioneers Crick and Watson. The deeper question is if and when our Promethean hubris may meet its nemesis in unforeseen consequences. In the meantime a vigorous public debate is required before Pandora's Box is opened (to continue the Greek analogy) and the technology is marketed for competitive advantage.