Genetic engineering
Sir, — Genetic engineering is psychologically derived from the human fear of death and the desire for immortality — and the pay is good. Science can theoretically overcome death by technically eliminating the physical causes. What it cannot overcome is psychological fear, unless we agree to allow genetic engineering to eliminate fear itself — an essential defense mechanism for human survival and nature as we know it. Engineering a world fit for zombies, clones etc. would ensure safeguards allowing present genetic experiments to be carried out without concern for present fears of psychologically unfit Hydes failing to maintain the standards of their better halves, the professionally educated Jekylls. Even then, accident has combinations far beyond the understanding and control of even the most ordered mind, certainly beyond the control of men who have so far failed to “engineer” an understanding of their own minds. — Yours, etc.,
L. J. ROBINSON. February 23, 1977.
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Press, 24 February 1977, Page 16
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151Genetic engineering Press, 24 February 1977, Page 16
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