A new large scale study appeared online on October 7 in Molecular Psychiatry. The study demonstrated that genes play a role in individual responses to caffeine, and can influence some types of habitual behaviors, such as alcohol consumption and smoking. While this may seem simple on the surface, the implications for the manipulation of the genes that govern such behaviors (in the wrong hands) are staggering. What would be the end effect of creating a society in which 'unwanted' habitual behaviors are eliminated? And, a more important question perhaps: Who would decide which behaviors are 'unwanted'? The public? The government? The church? Mega-corporations?
A. W. Daniels has written two fiction novels that address the societal impacts of genetic engineering, 'Genetically Privileged' and 'Genetically Conflicted'. While works of fiction, his critically acclaimed books explore a topic that many find wildly controversial. He believes the issues are not clear cut.
"This is a classic example," stated Daniels, "of the genetic predisposition vs. environmental influence argument and further shows how the two sides may be more related, or intertwined, than previously thought.
"We may be predisposed genetically to an outside influence, such as caffeine or smoking, which can affect our daily habits. One person’s ability to metabolize a specific ingredient we consume can differ greatly from another’s thus affecting the ways we interact we our environment."
"This means our genetic structure provides a foundation from which the majority of our actions, and reactions, to the world around us are based, implying that even our personal observations are rooted in our genes."
"Humans are thought to have one natural instinct, to suckle, which allows us to be breast fed as a newborn. Is this study telling us there may be more instincts, however sublime, that we have yet to identify?"
"What if one is determined to be “predisposed” to a trait that is considered undesirable? Might that individual be genetically modified? Might that individual be segregated into a caste system that allows only the genetically “fit” to progress in society? Or worse, may they be discarded in an attempt to homogenize society?"
"The big question is; who is deciding just what is, and what is not, desirable?"
Critics have praised "Genetically Privileged", calling it "an insightful spin of science exploring genetic engineering" and "An inventive, intriguing novel."
In a recent review, Midwest Book Review stated, "The sequel to A. W. Daniels' science fiction thriller 'Genetically Privileged', 'Genetically Conflicted', continues to demonstrate Daniel's narrative storytelling skills as he expands on his complexly woven world of the future. A solid entertainment from beginning to end, 'Genetically Conflicted' is very highly recommended reading for all science fiction enthusiasts."
"Genetically Privileged" addresses the advancements of technology and science as Daniels speculates on the social impact of those developments, centered around a group of genetically engineered children. In "Genetically Conflicted", the seemingly idyllic world of the genetically engineered students from "Genetically Privileged" is shattered as they are confronted by a foe bent on destroying not only their lifestyle but also those responsible for their very existence.
Recent interviews with A.W. Daniels' can be accessed at The Authors Show site at http://www.theauthorsshow.com. Daniels is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below or by email at aw.daniels@yahoo.com. Both books are available at Amazon, Smashwords and CreateSpace. More information is available at Daniels' website at http://www.AWDaniels.net.
About A. W. Daniels:
"Genetically Privileged" and"'Genetically Conflicted" are the first two offerings in a series of works by A. W. Daniels. The author's ability to craft compelling stories has been honed by extensive travel and observation of the human nature. This allows Mr. Daniels to weave a tapestry that colorfully, and sometimes bluntly, exposes the good and evil humankind inflicts on each other daily.
Contact:
A.W. Daniels
http://www.AWDaniels.net
aw.daniels@yahoo.com
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