Can Science Make Sense of Life?

This book explores the limits of scientific manipulation of life, arguing that while science can edit biological texts, it cannot redefine human values and meaning.

Since the discovery of DNA's structure, a potent vocabulary has emerged, reflecting science's increasing mastery over life's fundamental components. This transformation has positioned biology and biotechnology at the forefront of potentially editing or even rewriting the very texts of life, enabling the correction of nature's errors. With this newfound power, the question arises: how far should science go in manipulating the essence of life at the molecular level?

The book Can Science Make Sense of Life? delves into critical intersections of law, politics, ethics, and culture, posing essential questions about the implications of scientific advancements. It argues that while science may possess the tools to alter the material aspects of life, it does not hold the authority to redefine what life signifies for humanity. This exploration emphasizes the importance of established human values that have guided societies for centuries, including autonomy, integrity, and privacy.

In examining these themes, Can Science Make Sense of Life? provides a thoughtful critique of the promises of scientific perfectibility. It highlights the need for a balanced discourse that respects the diverse languages of sense-making that shape our understanding of kinship, family, and our place within the natural world. Ultimately, the book calls for a nuanced approach to the intersection of science and human values, urging readers to consider the broader implications of scientific intervention in the fabric of life.