Summary: Publisher Summary 1 A biologist and a moral philosopher consider the positive potential and the possible negative consequences of genetic engineering, outlining the science surrounding the technology while discussing moral and ethical considerations. Reprint.   Publisher Summary 2 Both educators, biologist Reiss (U. of London) and moral philosopher Straughan (U of Reading) describe the science underlying genetic engineering for non-biologists, and explore the moral and ethical considerations that arise from it. They make some recommendations, but tend to elucidate choices readers can make for themselves. The account first appeared in 1996, and continues here its frequent reprinting in various formats. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)   Publisher Summary 3 Little more than a decade ago the term "genetic engineering" was hardly known outside research laboratories. Today it regularly makes headlines. Those in favor of genetic engineering--and those against it--tell us that it has the potential to change our lives perhaps more than any other scientific or technological advance. But what are the likely consequences of genetic engineering? Is it ethically acceptable? Should we be trying to improve on nature? In Improving Nature?, the authors, a biologist and a moral philosopher, examine the implications of genetic engineering in every aspect of our lives. The underlying science is clearly explained and the moral and ethical considerations are fully disussed, resulting in a wide-ranging, balanced overview of a controversial subject. Michael Jonathan Reiss, a biologist, is Professor of Science Education and Head of Science & Technology, University of London Institute of Education. He is the author of Understanding Science Lessons (Open University Press, 2000). Roger Straughan is Reader in Education at the University of Reading. He is the author of Beliefs, Behaviour and Education (Cassell Academic, 1989). Previous paperback edition (1996) 0-521-63754-6   Publisher Summary 4 The authors examine the implications of genetic engineering in every aspect of our lives.