Science Seeds And Cyborgs

Exploring the wide reach of modern biotechnology, from the genetic modification of plants and animals to medical genetics, assisted reproduction and human cloning, it suggests that we are losing sight of the human being in favour of adapting that being to an inhuman world."--BOOK JACKET.

'Cyborg', from the Greek for 'steersman' combined with 'organism', was coined in the mid-20th century to describe the new human who would be required for space travel - enhanced by mechanical, chemical or electronic means, he or she would be half-human, half-machine. This excitingly-illustrated book discusses the astonishing changes in biotechnology that make the cyborg seem more science fact than science fiction. Soon we could all be Superman or Wonderwoman. What will this mean to us as individuals? How will it affect society? The author reminds us that the yearning for immortality and superpowers is as ancient as the human race; it's just that these now seem within our reach. We are guided on a journey through metamorphoses old and new, fictional and factual - from werewolves to genetic engineering, from Dr Frankenstein to a professor's arm controlled by another's thoughts, from the androids of science fiction to a real robot sensitive to human moods.

In particular, Donna Haraway argued in her famous 1991 'Cyborg Manifesto' that people, since they are so often now detached and separated from nature, have themselves evolved into cyborgs. This striking idea has had considerable influence within critical theory, cultural studies and even science fiction (where it has surfaced, for example, in the Terminator films and in the Borg of the Star Trek franchise). But it is a notion that has had much less currency in theology. In his innovative new book, Scott Midson boldly argues that the deeper nuances of Haraway's and the cyborg idea can similarly rejuvenate theology, mythology and anthropology. Challenging the damaging anthropocentrism directed towards nature and the non-human in our society, the author reveals - through an imaginative reading of the myth of Eden - how it is now possible for humanity to be at one with the natural world even as it vigorously pursues novel, 'post-human', technologies.

With the astounding advances in biotechnology, superhuman powers that were once the stuff of legend or comic-strip fantasy now seem within our reach. Science fiction is fast becoming science fact, and many believe that the cyborg, an organism enhanced by mechanical, electronic, or chemical means, will produce the next leap forward in human evolution. Ever since Daedalus strapped on wings, human beings have invented countless ways of overcoming their bodily limitations. Today silicone or collagen implants and plastic joints and valves cheat the aging process. Sophisticated medicines, pacemakers, and organ transplants defy death; and genetic engineering promises to bring major breakthroughs. With the harnessing of brain waves, paralyzed limbs will move again, and artificial limbs will do exactly what the wearer wants. Marie O'Mahony is the guide on this amazing and excitingly illustrated voyage through metamorphoses, fictional and factual, from werewolves to cloning, from Frankenstein's monster to the scientist whose arm is controlled by another's thoughts, from the enhanced humans of science fiction to Cog, the robot sensitive to human moods. The implications of the innovations to come, whether for good or evil, are also considered. What would it mean to be human if robots could do all the work? If our brains could be transplanted or uploaded, our worn-out bodies rejuvenated and beautified, and our natural powers and senses enhanced or manipulated? What if we could live forever?

Toward a New Socialism offers a critical analysis of capitalism's failings and the imminent need for socialism as an alternative form of government. This book demonstrates that capitalism is destructive and limiting to the many ongoing campaigns to increase freedom, equality, and security. Dr. Richard Schmitt joins with Dr. Anatole Anton to compile a volume of essays exploring the benefits and consequences of a socialist system as an avenue of increased human solidarity and ethical principle. The essays offer a new definition of socialism by investigating the theories and principles of socialism, its influence on social institutions, and its role in work dynamics. Raising important and unavoidable questions for contemporary society, Toward a New Socialism is a vital resource for scholars of political theory and the globalization movement, as well as a necessary read for every citizen under capitalism.

Would you become a cyborg just to survive? I did, and it ended the world. In 2040, three factions went to war over the creation of artilects—sentient androids indistinguishable from human beings. Five years later, Ailith wakes to find the Artilect War over and the modern world destroyed. Her only connection to the life she once knew is Tor, a stranger who protected her as she slept. A cyborg. Like her. They believed they were the only ones; they were wrong. Others of their kind are alive—and facing execution. Their deaths must be prevented at all costs, for if they die, humankind will become extinct. But as Ailith and Tor face off against old enemies and a self-proclaimed god, they begin to doubt the true nature of their design. They can trust no one—not even each other, despite the passion that binds them together. Humanity fought a war to annihilate us. Now their future depends on our survival. We are the seed. The Seeds of Winter is the first book in the Artilect War saga. If you like dystopian science fiction with cyborgs, heroines, and a dash of meta, you'll love this series!

Emphasizing an interdisciplinary and international coverage of the functions and effects of science and technology in society and culture, Science, Technology, and Society contains over 130 A to Z signed articles written by major scholars and experts from academic and scientific institutions and institutes worldwide. Each article is accompanied by a selected bibliography. Other features include extensive cross referencing throughout, a directory of contributors, and an extensive topical index.

'Science, Technology, and Society' offers approximately 150 articles written by major scholars and experts from academic and scientific institutions worldwide. The theme is the functions and effects of science and technology in society and culture.