Biotechnology and the Human Good

by C. Ben Mitchell, Edmund D. Pellegrino, Jean Bethke Elshtain

Some of humankind's greatest tools have been forged in the research laboratory. Who could argue that medical advances like antibiotics, blood transfusions, and pacemakers have not improved the quality of people's lives? But with each new technological breakthrough there comes an array of consequences, at once predicted and unpredictable, beneficial and hazardous.

Outcry over recent developments in the reproductive and genetic sciences has revealed deep fissures in society's perception of biotechnical progress. Many are concerned that reckless technological development, driven by consumerist impulses and greedy entrepreneurialism, has the potential to radically shift the human condition―and not for the greater good. Biotechnology and the Human Good builds a case for a stewardship deeply rooted in Judeo-Christian theism to responsibly interpret and assess new technologies in a way that answers this concern.

The authors jointly recognize humans not as autonomous beings but as ones accountable to each other, to the world they live in, and to God. They argue that to question and critique how fields like cybernetics, nanotechnology, and genetics might affect our future is not anti-science, anti-industry, or anti-progress, but rather a way to promote human flourishing, common sense, and good stewardship.

A synthetic work drawing on the thought of a physician, ethicists, and a theologian, Biotechnology and the Human Good reminds us that although technology is a powerful and often awe-inspiring tool, it is what lies in the heart and soul of who wields this tool that truly makes the difference in our world.

Genres: Science, Philosophy

Paperback

First published April 23, 2007

About the author

C. Ben Mitchell is associate professor of bioethics and contemporary culture at Trinity International University, Deerfield, Illinois.

Reviews

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a challenging read for me, but I found it to be a thorough clarification of how Christians should face the challenging ethical questions raised by new advances in biotechnology.

I loved how the book cited a massive variety of sources to build its case (there are 43 pages of reference notes in the back). I also love how the authors used scripture to back up their claims. This book helped give me a clear framework for thinking about biotechnology through a Christian worldview.

"Paradise for Christians is not a human-made, earthly paradise fashioned by chemical or biological prestidigitation. It is union with God and the joy of fulfilling his will, not ours. Only in that final union with God, in a body glorified by the resurrection, can the insatiable hunger that drives humans to enhancement be satisfied." Pg. 134

[gadabout · Rating 1 out of 5]

A book discussing various perspectives on biotechnology is an excellent book in concept, especially when it considers negative perspectives.

Unfortunately this is not that book, no matter how hard it pretends to be. This is Christian literature whose strongest argument is faith based and where "because God believes so" is the deepest rationalization. It is not a discussion so much as a disappointment.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

An important book regarding biotechnology from a Christian perspective. My only frustration is that it is too short; I wish the authors would have further elucidated some of their points rather than moving on for the sake of length. I would certainly take the opportunity to read other books that draw out the errors of scientism, etc., if the authors made them.