11/01/2015
Gr 8 Up—Without historical perspective to draw on but also seldom daring to go out on speculative limbs, the authors of these studies of potentially world-changing technological innovations limit themselves largely to current but conventional overviews of their subjects and catalogs of known hazards and ethical issues. Allen, for instance, lays out the value of gene modification not only for the treatment of disease, but for obesity and even depression—but aside from noting that it could also artificially enhance athletic performance makes only a few vague cautionary statements about the possibilities for designer babies. Along with arguing that industrial robots are actually creating jobs (but saying nothing about the often low quality and insecure nature of said jobs), Nardo expresses skepticism about whether true artificial intelligence is possible. Still, the information in each volume is up to date, and each is well furnished with statistical data, study questions, and leads to further resources. VERDICT Solid additions. Where topics overlap, these may serve as complementary updates to the publisher's pro-and-con "Thinking Critically" series (2013).
