In a collection of essays about biotechnology and environmental issues, editor Gregory E. Kaebnick assembles a plethora of notions around the concept of “nature” in our world of changing values and increased technological capabilities. This collection looks to diverse ideals taken from scholarly research in the realms of biological and political science, as well as the humanities. Ancient insight from Greco-Roman times articulating the moral, social and ethical implications around what is defined as natural is cited alongside modern thought for a robust comparative analysis that encourages the reader to transcend the often favored extreme views to a moderate position that considers a more reasoned approach.

The essays examine the intricacies of topics ranging from definitions of nature to the application of social contract theory, to cultural, moral and social values of nature and wildlife, to distinguishing the natural versus artifactual and the controversy surrounding ideas of human intellectual and athletic enhancement through advancements in biotechnology. Each essay provides a concise wealth of pertinent information that looks at the benefits and risks of the definitions, philosophical debates and conclusions from a balanced perspective that inspires greater thought and study.

The concept of nature as non-human or the manipulation of environmental factors by a human as ending nature is also offered as fodder for dualistic discussion. The authors present ways of analysis that make it possible for us to view humans as both part of nature and capable of ending it — requesting that we consider moving beyond an idea of extending duality or compartmentalizing and “adopt a post-naturalist” view of environmental philosophy instead (p.96).

The debates around biological enhancements are some of the most intriguing, along with the reminder to the reader that a belief in the superiority of humankind to determine what is best for all life on the planet coupled with too much power to manipulate can have serious consequences to our world. We are asked to think about such shocking and extreme points in history such as Nazi Germany, to illustrate the desire for human domination resulting in a devastating effect. A more positive analysis is adopted in later essays where the concepts of therapeutic uses of biotechnology, the ability to improve health and cognitive capabilities and enhance physical performance are justified or create or distract from social fairness.

The Ideal of Nature is a thought-provoking look at the multifaceted topics of biotechnology and the environment through an array of lenses that leave the reader feeling grounded and inspired to explore greater depths of bioethics while avoiding the pitfall of becoming immersed in extremes.

© 2012 Linda Ocasio

Linda Ocasio has an MBA and a JD and is a Texas attorney