A scientific revolution is in progress that promises to alter
all prior rules on how humankind interacts with the biotic
world. Through the laboratory wizardry of genetic
engineering, researchers have gained the ability to identify
and characterize genes for nearly any biological function,
modify these genes and insert them into living cells, swap
genetic material freely among species, and even generate
perfect genetic copies (clones) of whole plants and animals.
By routinely engineering the genetic blueprints of living
organisms, scientists today have capabilities far exceeding
those of Dr. Frankenstein or Dr. Doolittle of earlier
fiction. Might some real-life GMOs (genetically modified
organisms) of the modern era become uncontrollable monsters
that turn against their makers, as did the stiff-legged brute
created by Dr. Frankenstein? Or will they remain our obedient
companions, like the pleasant animal friends of Dr.
Doolittle? This class will meet for two hours on each of the
following days only: April 6, April 13, April 20, April 27,
and May 4.
