Changing Human Nature

by Peterson, James C.

• ISBN13: 9780802865496
• ISBN10: 0802865496
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-10-22
• Publisher: Eerdmans Pub Co

Summary

As debate over the manipulation of human genes rages in the public sphere, James Peterson offers an informed Christian defense of genetic intervention. In Changing Human Nature he pointedly reminds us that the question we need most to consider is not whether our genes will undergo change but whether we will be conscious of and conscientious about the direction of that change.

Author Biography

James C. Peterson is the R. A. Hope Professor of Theology and Ethics at McMaster Divinity College, Hamilton, Ontario. His previous books include Genetic Turning Points: The Ethics of Human Genetic Intervention.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Our Changing Nature	p. 1
Called to Shape What Is Entrusted to Us
God's Garden	p. 15
Using Tools	p. 52
Body and Soul	p. 65
Three Helpful Cautions, but Inadequate Guides for Shaping Human Nature
Cure versus Enhancement	p. 101
Welcoming versus Making	p. 126
The Present versus the Future	p. 142
Four Standards for Shaping Human Nature
Safe	p. 163
Genuine Improvement	p. 171
Increase Choice for the Recipient	p. 190
Best Use of Always Finite Resources	p. 197
Who Applies These Standards?
The Devastating History of Coercion, Racism, and Eugenics	p. 207
Checks and Balances	p. 220
Expectations	p. 239
Acknowledgments	p. 241
Author Index	p. 243
Subject Index	p. 250
Scripture Reference Index	p. 258
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