Embryos Under the Microscope: The Diverging Meanings of Life

From abortion and contraception through stem cell research, human embryos find themselves at the center of numerous political debates, and Maienschein, professor of biology at Arizona State University, notes that members of the public, including legislators, often “do not have the right kind of information to make wise choices.” Her goal here is to provide the sort of biological knowledge that will elevate the quality of dialogue and decision-making about these controversial issues. Balancing a rich historical perspective with modern insights, Maienschein demonstrates that some of the most deeply held beliefs—beliefs that run contrary to our scientific understanding—are consistent with those professed centuries ago. While awareness of biological realities should shape public policy, she is politically astute enough to recognize “that underlying faith and belief will trump any other evidence, including scientific.” Maienschein explains the biological basis for the Roe v. Wade decision and weighs in on the debate over fetal pain, asserting that it is impossible for fetuses to feel pain as early as proponents claim since they don’t have the necessary “neural wiring” until after week 24. Maienschein moves further afield by discussing exciting possibilities offered by “regenerative medicine,” and though her book is occasionally repetitive, it illuminates and clarifies debates often obscured by emotion. (May)