The Molecular Gaze: Art in the Genetic Age

by Suzanne Anker, Dorothy Nelkin

The gene has become a cultural icon and an increasingly rich source of imagery and ideas for visual artists. Drawing on a wide range of contemporary painting and sculpture, The Molecular Gaze: Art in the Genetic Age explores the moral and bioethical questions these works address. What does it mean to be human? What is "identity" in a society of genetically manipulated individuals? Questions like these are growing louder as genetic technology advances and the public examines the ethical consequences more widely. Suzanne Anker and Dorothy Nelkin, an artist and a social scientist, have written a thought-provoking and visually fascinating book for scientists, artists, students, and general readers intrigued by the anxiety and exhilaration of the genetic age.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction

216 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2003

Reviews

[Mao · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicely written essays about science-themed art. Quite informative. The molecular biology field is vastly different from what it is today so some ideas may seem a bit dated, but in general, it is worth reading.