Future of Humanity: Technology, Medicine and Genetics
Significant recent advancements in the areas of medicine, reproduction science, human performance, and communication are challenging existing assumptions about the nature of humanity. Beliefs and practices that have existed for centuries about the life span of a human, the nature of procreation, the modes of interaction, the future of disease, and the limits of human potential are being challenged through new discoveries in human genetics, performance-enhancing pharmaceuticals, and technological aids to existing human capacities. The pace of scientific and technological change is rapid, and the pace shows signs of increasing in the coming years. We must carefully examine these developments now and assess the desirability of their contributions to human existence. Ought we to honor a natural limit to human performance? Is it wise to intervene into the human germ line through genetic therapies? Is genetic testing a desirable public practice? What are the implications of accepting cloning technology or embryonic stem cell research for advances in medicine? Ought we to pursue the biotechnical combination of machine (such as through nanotechnology) and human to produce a new era in human existence (such as transhumanism or technohumanism)? Will new communication technologies strengthen our interconnections or weaken our social bonds? What is the future of human nature?
SEPTEMBER 16
David A. Penner Debate
Building a Better Human: Is it morally acceptable to enhance the chemical and genetic nature of persons?
Featuring James C. Peterson, Ph.D. and C. Christopher Hook M.D.
October, 3, 2004
Living the Peace of Jesus in a Time of War
In dedication of the Parmlee Room
December 8, 2004
Will Affluence Kill Our Commitment?
"Following Jesus in a Materialist World"
February 16-18, 2005
Business as Mission Conference
"God's Purpose for Buisness"
March 17-19 2005
CACE Spring conference
"The Future of Humanity: Technology, Medicine, and Genetics"
