The Challenge and Its Roots

The Challenge and Its Roots

Contributor(s):
Luria, S. E. (Salvador Edward), 1912-1991
American Philosophical Society. Library. Salvador Luria Papers
Publication:
Produced: [20 April 1972]
Language(s):
English
Format:
Text
Genre(s):
Archival Materials
Lectures
Abstract:
The subject of Luria's Penrose Memorial Lecture was the relationships between science, technology, and responsibility. He specifically questioned why so many had begun to distrust science and technology. He believed this distrust to have been fueled by events of the world wars, and the advent of "nuclear terror," which shattered the "illusion of a smooth future of progress." He further noted that genetic manipulation that might be possible with further advances raised fears among many ranging from the ability to select the sex of one's child, the possibility of genetic weapons, or the ability to "create races of enslaved morons or of ruling supermen." Luria argued that by rejecting technological and scientific development outright, critics miss the real target: "the ills of society," noting that the real problems of men were social and political.
Copyright:
This item may be under copyright protection; contact the copyright owner for permission before re-use.
Extent:
25 pages
NLM Unique ID:
101584611X125 (See in Profiles in Science)
Profiles in Science ID:
QLBBJB
Permanent Link:
http://resource.nlm.nih.gov/101584611X125
Archival Collection:
The Salvador E. Luria Papers (Profiles in Science)