A comprehensive survey of the current context and ethical implications of human-nonhuman genetic combinations. The idea of human-nonhuman combinations has been a recurrent theme throughout the history of humanity. From the myths of the Minotaur and the centaurs in ancient Greece to the dogheads of the Middle Ages right through to the monsters of modern science fiction, these beings have always been a source of fascination. In recent years, however, biomedical advances have demonstrated the potential to make these entities a reality through the creation of inter-species combinations. As a result, pressing and perplexing ethical questions arise. Introducing the reader to the historical context of human-nonhuman experimentation and potential future developments, this volume offers clarification, analysis and a thorough overview of the ethical challenges relating to human-nonhuman chimeras, true hybrids, cybrids and other combinations. This book is the first accessible survey of the different ethical dilemmas facing contemporary society in the creation of human-nonhuman embryonic, foetal and postnatal entities. These include important cultural, legal, philosophical and religious perspectives. As such it will act as a springboard for future debate.

In his 2006 State of the Union speech, President George W. Bush asked the U.S. Congress to prohibit the "most egregious abuses of medical research," such as the "creation of animal–human hybrids." The president's message echoed that of a 2004 report by the President's Council on Bioethics, which recommended that hybrid human–animal embryos be banned by Congress. Discussions of early interspecies research, in which cells or DNA are interchanged between humans and nonhumans at early stages of development, can often devolve into sweeping statements, colorful imagery, and confusing policy. Although today's policy advisory groups are becoming more informed, debate is still limited by the interchangeable use of terms such as chimeras and hybrids, a tendency to treat all forms of interspecies alike, the failure to distinguish between laboratory research and procreation, and not enough serious policy justification. Andrea Bonnicksen seeks to understand reasons behind support of and disdain for interspecies research in such areas as chimerism, hybridization, interspecies nuclear transfer, cross-species embryo transfer, and transgenics. She highlights two claims critics make against early interspecies studies: that the research will violate human dignity and that it can lead to procreation. Are these claims sufficient to justify restrictive policy? Bonnicksen carefully illustrates the challenges of making policy for sensitive and often sensationalized research—research that touches deep-seated values and that probes the boundary between human and nonhuman animals.

To free myself, I defy the goddess-queen. To free the realm, I must dethrone the gods for good. Chimera’s were once legendary for their shapeshifting prowess and the ability to breathe fire. Yet the secrets and cruelties within my goddess-queen mother’s court render me nothing more than a beast to control—caged, inferior, and cowardly. But when prisoners are brought into the palace, I break the goddess-queen’s rules. Anything to learn more of the outside world I’m kept away from. Yet breaking the rules comes at a price: I’m exiled from the court I called home and the mother I don’t know how to live without. A mother who lied about everything—including the details of who I am and who birthed me. To survive, I band together with a handsome demigod—Alexius, the latest blacksmith to seal a collar around my neck. He’s a mess of contradictions—arrogant yet modest, immovable yet soft—and I like him far more than I should. With each day, it deepens into something more. Something I don’t dare name. And though his plan to put Zeus back on the throne is risky, it may earn me freedom. I risked everything for the prisoners’ freedom. Then I risk everything for my own. Yet when allies and enemies alike crumble beneath the goddess-queen’s tyranny, will I risk everything to free the realm? If you like Greek mythology, swoon-worthy romance, and legendary creatures, you’ll love Chimera Child, the final book in a thrilling fantasy trilogy.

First Published in 2006. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Vols. for 1963- include as pt. 2 of the Jan. issue: Medical subject headings.