Contemporary Ethics Forum

Topic: Human Genetic Manipulation - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

St. Peter’s Church, Portishead, BS20 6PS: Monday, 27th April 7:30 - 9:30 pm

 

We are delighted to welcome Professor Keith Fox as our speaker for the next Ethics Forum. Keith is Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry, Southampton University and former Associate Director and then Director of The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion in Cambridge (2015-2021).

 

Recent scientific advances enable us to manipulate (edit) our genomes with the potential for preventing or curing some genetic diseases. This may seem like an exciting prospect, but it raises questions about what is ‘normal’ and what it means to be human. Is this the slippery slope to the production of ‘designer babies’? Should we be allowed to select embryos that will produce children who will have the right combination of genes to give particular skills (such as IQ, athletic or musical ability)? Or is this a sophisticated form of eugenics, making people in our own likeness?

 

Keith’s research interests concern DNA structure and its recognition, and his scientific work has been published in over 200 papers and articles. He is a former Chair and Trustee of Christians in Science and is Editor of Science & Christian Belief. Since retiring in 2023, he has been ordained and is serving as a curate in Highfield Church, Southampton. His book, Modifying Our Genes: Theology, Science and ‘Playing God’ , was published by SCM Press in March 2021.

 

All are welcome. No tickets needed. Admission is free, but donations are welcome (Suggested donation £5). We also plan to livestream the forum to the church’s YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/live/RkjuSPBH85Y

Contact: David on 01275 840 245 or david.tyers@gmail.com for further information

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