Innovations in genetics hold a promise and a complexity. The promise is that soon we will be able to cure and prevent a range of degenerative diseases. The complexity is that the new knowledge can also allow us to manipulate our own nature: to enhance our genetic traits and those of our children, seeking to be "better than well".

Advancements in biotechnology confront us with questions largely forgotten in the modern world - questions about the ethical status of nature and the attitude of humans towards the world. As these touch the boundaries of theology, modern philosophers and political scientists tend to bypass them. But the new powers of biotechnology make them inevitable.

The prominent American philosopher Michael Sandel makes an exception here: by exploring these ethical dilemmas in an exemplary way, he shows that the enhancement of human nature through genetic technologies is questionable, for reasons that go beyond safety and justice; it represents an attempt at control and domination that fails to appreciate the gifted character of human powers and achievements. The pursuit of perfection is flawed.

"We live in a world," says Michael Sandel, "where 'science moves faster than moral understanding'." However, thanks to Sandel, moral understanding seems to catch up. Cloning, embryonic research, performance-enhancing drugs, pills that make you stronger or taller: if some scientific advancement bothers you, but you can't explain why, Michael Sandel will help you understand why you are concerned. And then he will tell you if you are right."

(Michael Kinsley)