The Genetic Revolution and Human Rights

This collection of lectures addresses ethical dilemmas in genetics, including eugenics and access to genetic information. The Genetic Revolution and Human Rights offers crucial insights for understanding these issues.

This volume presents the 1998 Oxford Amnesty Lectures, which delve into pressing ethical questions surrounding genetics. Among the key topics explored are the moral implications of eugenics practices, the accessibility of genetic information, and the potential threats that advancements in genetics may pose to cultural and racial diversity. The discussions aim to illuminate the complexities of these issues and their relevance to human rights.

The lecturers featured in this collection are leading figures in their respective fields, including Hilary Putnam, Ian Wilmut, who is known for co-creating 'Dolly' the sheep, and Jonathan Glover. Each lecture is accompanied by insightful discussion articles authored by prominent lawyers, scientists, and philosophers, providing a well-rounded perspective on the topics at hand. Additionally, Richard Dawkins contributes a foreword that sets the stage for the discussions that follow.

The Genetic Revolution and Human Rights is not just an academic exploration; it is a call to consider the ethical ramifications of genetic research and its impact on society. The book encourages readers to engage with the moral dilemmas posed by genetic advancements and to contemplate how such developments should be regulated. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of genetics, ethics, and human rights.