Genetic Engineering

by Steve Parker

Genetic engineering allows today's scientists to affect life itself. This book asks whether this will prove to be a blessing or a curse. What exactly is genetic engineering? How can it help the fight against sickness and famine? Is GM food really safe? What does the cloning of human beings mean for the future?

57 pages, Library Binding

First published August 22, 2002

About the author

Steve Parker is a British science writer known for producing hundreds of children's and adult nonfiction books covering zoology, medicine, evolution, and natural history. Educated at the University of Wales, Bangor, where he earned first class honours in zoology, he later worked at the Natural History Museum and held editorial positions at Dorling Kindersley before becoming a freelance author during the late 1980s. Parker contributed early titles to the acclaimed Eyewitness series and later wrote award-winning books including Science Crazy, Fizzing Physics, The Human Body Book, and Kill or Cure. He has also edited major collaborative works on evolution and medicine, regularly visits schools and libraries, and serves as a Senior Scientific Fellow of the Zoological Society of London.

Reviews

[Hannah O'Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated how the author of World Issues: Genetic Engineering presented the book’s namesake in a factual and opinion based manner. By providing diverse information (like quotes from both proponents and opponents, facts about genetic engineering, potential dangers, and what the author titled “Debate” boxes), Parker has managed to give us a well-rounded look at the topic. For instance, one of the boxes proposed a question concerning whether or not “genetic engineering” should be considered an “art form” (Parker, 10). Both opinions are then stated, along with their reasons. Nowadays, most sources of information tend to overlook (or even infantilize) their opponents, so this book presented a refreshing change from the norm. The book also differs from standard media through its implicit expression of the importance of respecting others with differing opinions. Parker manages to present both sides of the genetic engineering coin without suggesting either is “right,” showing that it is possible to be kind to people who disagree with you. I recommend this career book to young adults interested in the career and an introduction to the topic.

[Savanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summary: This book deals with the issue of Genetic Engineering. It teaches its readers first what Genetic Engineering is. Then, as to not alarm its readers, it talks about what rules are in place to protect people and the environment from contaminates. Lastly this book discuses what Genetic Engineering's uses are.

I liked this book because, while it is a little out of date, it still has correct information and has a calming effect so people don't begin to think that horrible things could happen any second due to a mistake with Genetic Engineering.

Nonfiction

WARNING: this book is controversial because of its topic. Genetic Engineering is a highly debated topic and this book also talks a little bit about the potential of Human Enhancements; which, even if this book doesn't really take a stance on the topic itself, is even more controversial than the run of the mill Genetic Engineering.

[Shiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

its small......but very valuable.