Throughout the course of the last several centuries, science and religion have been somewhat at odds with one another. During the Enlightenment era, much conflict arose as to what constituted Earth - its shape, size, and position in relation to the sun. In the 19th century, the squabble over evolutionist theory versus that of creationism (an argument that continues today) ensued. However, in the last decade or so, a new roadblock in the narrowing rift between scientific theory and theological theory has arisen: the debate over genetic engineering. Many religious figures oppose certain types of genetic engineering, feeling that the fate of one's offspring should be left to God; others contend that man should be able to do anything he is capable of if, for example, the likelihood of disease or birth defect is reduced.

Since 1978, 100,000 babies have been born via "Assisted Reproductive Technology", (ART). Natural birth results in an offspring whose DNA is 99.9% the same as the parents. In comparison, the DNA of clones is 99.999% similar to those of the parents. The DNA of other primates and humans is 99% similar. Reprogenetics is the practice of "Genetic Analysis"

As a result, some may suggest that genetic engineering is an extension of the work of God. The theory recognizes the reality of our evolution and emphasizes the interconnection of biology and culture, including technology, as determining the present human condition.

"What about a . . . couple who become sterile after having one healthy child and then want to have a second by cloning the first? The second child, of course, would be a late-born identical twin. Would this be unacceptable because the older twin is not in a position to consent to being cloned? I think not."

Upon learning of the successful cloning of Dolly, Lee Silver, professor of molecular biology at Princeton University, said, "It's unbelievable! It basically means that all of science fiction is true." In his book Remaking Eden: Cloning and Beyond in a Brave New World, Silver speculates that reprogenetics, and eventually cloning will play a significant role in the future:

"Alcohol addiction will be eliminated, along with tendencies towards mental disease and antisocial behavior like extreme aggression. Visual and auditory acuity will be enhanced in some to improve artistic potential. And when our understanding of the genetic input into brain development has advanced, reprogenetics will provide parents with the option of enhancing various cognitive attributes as well."

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1027
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)