Challenging Nature - (Ecco) by Lee M Silver (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology...wise, realistic...a well-crafted argument." - New England Journal of Medicine

In Challenging Nature, Lee M. Silver offers a provocative look at the collision of science, religion, pseudoscience, and politics. A hands-on scientist who has actually manipulated genes, he leaves the laboratory, traveling the globe in what he calls "one scientist's journey from a cloistered community, in which life is assumed to be combinations of complex molecules and information flow between them, to a world of humanity dominated by soul and spirits, and to the intense chaos of Mother Nature at large." The result is a fascinating book that could provide a wake-up call for the West, where the economic ramifications of pseudoscience may be enormous.

Stem cell research, genetically modified crops, animals developed with personalized human organs for transplantation, and other previously inconceivable biotech applications could increase the quality of all human lives and maximize the health of the biosphere. But ironically, as the science becomes more precise and transparent, it also becomes more contentious.

Silver argues that although they seem to have little in common, Christian fundamentalists opposed to embryo research and New Age organic food devotees are both driven by a deeply rooted fear that biotechnology--in some guise--challenges the sovereignty of a higher or deeper transcendent authority. In the short term, Silver writes, Eastern spiritual traditions will give Asian countries a research advantage. But over the millennia, human nature may have the potential to remake Mother Nature in the image of an idealized world.

From the Back Cover

Stem cell research, genetically modified crops, animals developed with personalized human organs for transplantation, and other previously inconceivable biotech applications could increase the quality of all human lives and maximize the health of the biosphere. But ironically, as the science becomes more precise and transparent, it also becomes more contentious. In Challenging Nature, Silver argues that although they seem to have little in common, Christian fundamentalists opposed to embryo research and New Age organic food devotees are both driven by a deeply rooted fear that biotechnology--in some guise--challenges the sovereignty of a higher or deeper transcendent authority. In the short term, Silver writes, Eastern spiritual traditions will give Asian countries a research advantage. But over the millennia, human nature may have the potential to remake Mother Nature in the image of an idealized world.

Review Quotes

"A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology...wise, realistic...a well-crafted argument." - New England Journal of Medicine

Silver's provocative ideas and his graceful prose open new avenues for discussion of the challenges that face science and spirituality." - Publishers Weekly

"This one will make you think, perhaps in realms you've avoided. It's probably worth the effort." - John Monaghan, The Providence Journal

"Lucid and sensible...definitely worth reading and will likely challenge your preconceived notions of what biotechnology is and offers." - Capital Times (Madison, WI)

"A valuable exposition of the rationalist's view of the world...He argues eloquently...sound of a battle that will continue." - Nicholas Wade, New York Times

"Uplifting...His critics will be begging for equal time, and readers may find themselves alternately cheering or arguing...Highly recommended. - Library Journal