Science and Inquiry discussion

For January 2026, we will be reading Replaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy y Mary Roach.

Please use this thread to post questions, comments, and reviews, at any time.

Roach's 2025 book describes how advancements in gene editing and 3D printing technology might further make our anatomy "replaceable." Note use of the key word, "further." As the author profiles numerous, relevant scientists she expresses fact-based concern about the Trump administration's cuts to medical research which threaten to interrupt the "pipeline of innovation and discovery."

What sticks with me is especially relevant to ongoing end-of-the-year holiday feasts mixed with super abundant laughing and talking. I learned about the long understood, complex functioning of our taken-for-granted epiglottis. Its dysfunction or impairment, whether due to trouble during the not-so-rare hospital intubation procedure, or not, can introduce oral-region microbes or small food particles into the lungs as a precursor to life threatening or life ending pneumonia.

At times, there's an element of future shock to this well-written, fire hose blast of replacement stories about, for example: skin, hair follicles, limbs, genitalia, eye components, and internal organs. I listened to the audiobook which was superbly read by the author.

Consider checking this book out as a treat to satisfy your curiosity about: a) the human body, b) the history of replacing its parts, and c) possibilities around the corner.