Sheep Have Been Cloned, Are Humans Next?
Do you enjoy watching forensic science shows like CSI? Are you
interested in genetics and the intricacies of DNA? Genetic
engineering that deals with the human genome and DNA has become
a hot bed for discussion in recent years. Advancements in
forensic science have helped law enforcement to nab criminals
and solve previous “cold” cases. Understanding the components of
the human body and human nature is valuable information that is
a welcome notion of safety for most.
While many would agree that using DNA as evidence is a good
idea, manipulating human genetics is another issue. Cloning has
surfaced as a debate with moral and ethical implications. Sheep
have been cloned. One rationale for cloning animals was to
provide more food to starving nations. Is cloning safe? Is
creating a replica of an animal ethical? What are the long term
effects of cloning?
Many people wonder if cloning humans will come next. Will it be
a like a horrible old science fiction movie? How does the
cloning process occur? How do scientists and doctors create a
clone?
Stem cell research is also an issue discussed on many political
shows and at dinner parties around the country. Is stem cell
research ethical? When does life technically begin? Stem cell
research can help to save a great number of people suffering
from disease, but at what cost?
These are complex genetic engineering questions that require a
great deal of knowledge before you can make an informed
judgment. Become educated about genetic engineering issues by
listening to exciting, cutting edge audio books on the subject.
You can listen to them in the car on the way to work or on your
morning walk.
The human body is a fascinating piece of science. Start by
exploring the building blocks of the human body. Listen to DNA:
The Secret of Life by James D. Watson. James D. Watson provides
a comprehensive account of the genetic revolution. He has fifty
years of experience on the subject. He explains the genetic
revolution views in the past, present, and what to expect in the
future.
Want to relive one of the most dramatic races in biology? Check
out The Genome War by James Shreeve. This thrilling audio book
details the race to map the human genome. Listen to the
scientific adventure of a lifetime!
Concerned about the ethics and moral implications of genetic
engineering? Want to know more about each side of the issue?
Check out these great audio books to add to your deep well of
knowledge. Listen to Enough: Setting Limits on Human Genetic
Technology by Bill McKibben and Altering the Blueprint: The
Ethics of Genetics by Alexander McCall Smith. Both of these
audio books explore the ramifications of altering human
genetics. Will humans lose their identity? Will altering human
genetics create babies that are “made” instead of born?
Interested in other science topics as well? Check out the
Science Friday Podcast. It covers science, health, technology
and the environment.
Human DNA, genetics, and cloning will be a focal point of
research for many decades to come. Understand the facets of
human biology so that you can make informed judgments about any
biological issues that may come your way.
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About The Author: Jillian Gregory writes for LearnOutLoud.com, an online portal for educational and self-development audio and video material which can be found at http://www.learnoutloud.com.