Frankenstein's Cat: Cuddling Up to Biotech's Brave New Beasts

Cloning a cat, dog, cow, or pig; creating fish with elements of other fish; the development of insect cyborgs (roboroaches) or roborats, osseointegration, and animal prothesis—there is no end to the fascinating directions biotechnology is taking today. Some of these developments may lead to treatments for ailments that strike pets, farm animals, or wild creatures. Some, such as robo-controlled animals, could lead in more devious directions. Science journalist Anthes takes readers through these areas and others with clarity and simplicity (given the technical nature of the topics). She presents some of the ethical questions posed by scientists' increasing ability to manipulate biology and includes examples of how laws can affect scientific research. She also lets individuals involved in these developments speak for themselves.