Author: Leon R Kass
James Q Wilson/
Publisher: Scientia
Year: 2001
Language: English
Pages: 100
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8188155020
Description
In this engaging book, two noted teachers and preeminent political scientists explore the ethics of human cloning, reproductive technology, and the teleology of human sexuality. A thoughtful and provocative look at one of the defining issues of our time.
Although in their lively dialogue both authors share a fundamental distrust of the notion of human cloning, they base their reticence on different views of the role of sexual reproduction and the role of the family. Professor Kass contends that in vitro fertilization and other assisted reproduction technologies that place the origin of human life in human hand eroded the respect for the mystery of sexuality and human renewal. Professor Wilson, on the other hand, asserts that whether a human life is created naturally or artificially is immaterial as long as the child is raised by loving parents in a two-parent family and is not harmed by the means of its conception.
This accessible volume promises to inform the public policy debate over the permissible conduct of genetic research and the permissible uses of its discoveries.
PRAISE FOR THE WORK
Two of America's clearest thinkers demonstrate, not a moment too soon, 'the wisdom of repugnance' about certain uses of biological science.
- George F Will, Syndicated Columnist
A problem as complex and perplexing as cloning confronted by two of the finest minds of our time - from opposite ends, no less. Result? Brilliance. A penetrating and deeply enriching book.
- Charles Krauthammer, Syndicated Columnist
A triumph of subtlery and profundity. The best thinking on this important subject.
- Gertrude Himmelfarb, Author, The De-Moralization of Society
A riveting exchange between two master debater on one facet of the main question of our century and the next: Does science do us god or ill?
- Harvey C Mansfield, Harvard University
Read this book to weep over our present deprativities, to notice just how far we have descended, and to dread a future where even more corruptions of our sense of each other can be imagined.
- Paul R McHugh, John Hopkins School of Medicine
The disagreement the authors express in this book is an important one. How we choose between them will have some fateful consequences.
- Daniel Callahan, The Hastings Center
Contents
Introduction
PART ONE
The Wisdom of Repugnance
The Paradox of Cloning
PART TWO
Family Needs Is Natural Roots
Sex and Family
About the Authors