Review by ReaderAisha2020 -- The New Eugenics

ReaderAisha2020 · Post by **ReaderAisha2020** » 10 Mar 2021, 06:55

[Following is a volunteer review of "The New Eugenics" by Conrad B. Quintyn.]

4 out of 4 stars

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The New Eugenics is a book written by a scientist, Conrad B. Quintyn. It is a non-fiction book of 400 pages and the writer attempts to explain and demonstrate how scientists have attempted to influence and change the natural design of nature. He covers such issues as attempting to alter DNA and genes to create designer babies using IVF so that parents can choose eye colour, skin colour and other traits. This may lead to eradicating genetic illnesses and other unwanted characteristics. He also discusses how scientists have put their hands into working with viruses and natural illnesses and develop them in the laboratory. They do this with the apparent goal to come up with vaccines for such illnesses. However, the problems, if they get out of the laboratory, can be disastrous and such viruses may be immune to any vaccine. Disturbing issues, such as integrating human embryos with animal embryos and cloning is also discussed. At times ethics and laws have prevented such advances in science. Yet at times it is hoped that it will improve medical knowledge. Although there have been animals successfully cloned, is it ethical? And is it beneficial for modern medicine and science? How has scientific developments been related to Eugenics and trying to create a new, more developed type of human? Is that really to our benefit? And is it ethical?

What I liked about the book was that it was extremely well-written and clear. I did not find any errors except one word written incorrectly throughout the whole book. I liked the fact that the author uses different opinions of scientists and discusses the different ways each issue has been perceived. He discusses the ethical implications and the arguments that scientists put forward in support of their work. He does a good job of demonstrating how scientists go too far at times, by quoting them and arguing that they are trying to play God. Some of the statements and quotes seem to support what he says. All this he manages to put forward while remaining mostly objective. What was helpful for readers unfamiliar with scientific terms was that he wrote a glossary of scientific terms at the end of the book to explain them.

There was nothing particularly negative about the book, although due to the current situation I was hoping he may elaborate more on the coronavirus and how that may be related to science. I did not find any errors, except one word written incorrectly throughout the whole book.

Due to the above, I am rating the book,4 out of 4 stars, and because I think the book was very interesting and beneficial for the public to discover what scientists are doing, and their reasons for doing so.

It would suit people who enjoy non-fiction books and especially those related to science. People who have some knowledge or background in science may benefit from the book more, although it is suitable for all readers. There was no swearing, erotica, or anything that made it unsuitable for younger readers.

I could not think of anyone who would not benefit from the book but if you are looking for a book that goes deeply into issues or discusses things happening right now you might not find it in this book.

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The New Eugenics
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Ann Ogochukwu · Post by **Ann Ogochukwu** » 18 Mar 2021, 10:11

What I find most impressive about this book is that it is not a work of fiction, and like you said, it is well-written. It's not my kind of book though, so I'll pass.
Your review is very detailed, nice work.