Abstract
This book is a compilation of essays on ethics in biotechnology arranged into chapters. Chapters are written by recognized experts in biology, medicine, law, and ethics. Chapters cover the basics of embryonic stem cell research, the history of research on human subjects (including discussions of the Nuremburg code as a response to experimentation on humans and eugenics), the differences and similarities between cloning for therapy and cloning for reproduction, nanotechnology, clinical implications for embryonic stem cell research, and the state of the debate over cloning in Europe. Each chapter is prefaced by one of the editors. The book is focused almost entirely on embryonic stem cell research, and it asks that we consider not “what can we do” but, instead, “what ought we do” as a society. It also asks the questions again of “what life is a life worth living?” and who should make that decision. This book is not a shrill diatribe, as is often encountered in emotionally charged debates. Instead, each chapter is well written, and, although at times dry, the book largely provides cogent, thought-provoking arguments for consideration while remaining respectful of opposing views. As such, it presents objections, both secular and religious, to embryonic stem cell research while advocating the advancement of adult stem cell research. It also acknowledges that much of biotechnology is a net benefit for humankind and encourages its pursuit using ethical means that protect the dignity of all humans. Notably absent from the book are other biotechnology-related topics such as the patentability and ownership of genes (or sufficient genetic sequence to uniquely identify or “own” an individual organism), the production and use of genetically modified organisms, and the “humanization” of animal organs for transplant (which may harbor occult viral genomes). Overall, this book provides a thoughtful presentation of the issues in embryonic stem cell research but does not significantly touch on other areas of biotechnology with which veterinary pathologists are more frequently in contact.