Saved by Science
The Hope and Promise of Synthetic Biology
Description
Examines the evolution of synthetic biology and looks at the power of microbes to effect dramatic changes in three of the most pressing crises facing mankind: food, medicine, and climate.
Reviews
“Energetic and optimistic . . . With sensible language and peer-reviewed research, the author explores the present and coming needs regarding global health care, food security, and pollution and examines the history of genetically modified organisms . . . Encouraging advances in biology delineated through accessible, inviting writing. ” — Kirkus Reviews
“Over the next few decades we will learn how to edit life-forms by altering their DNA, much as we now edit stories and books using ABC’s. Poznansky gives us a sense of what this might mean for medicine, food, climate, and a myriad of human endeavors and challenges. He does so with grace and ease, such that any curious mind can comprehend. ” — Juan Enriquez, author of As the Future Catches You and co-author of Evolving Ourselves
“Saved by Science is a terrific gateway into the fascinating world of synthetic biology. It outlines why we need these new genetic superpowers more than ever if we are to solve global challenges and continue our most exciting explorations, such as establishing thriving colonies on Mars. Mark Poznansky’s book is a tonic for anyone concerned about global hunger, energy, health, or climate. It turns out we’ve got the tools to address pretty much every challenge right at our fingertips — we just have to get to work. ” — Andrew Hessel, founder and president of Humane Genomics
“Synthetic biology promises to be the next important step in our application of DNA. Mark Poznansky not only introduces us to the incredible potential of constructing novel living organisms but also provides the context to ensure that the inevitable debate will be constructive. ” — Jay Ingram, science writer and broadcaster