Žižek And So On The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Biogenetics
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Sep 30, 2024 In this engaging discussion, philosopher Slavoj Žižek dives into the implications of biogenetics and its existential dilemmas. He critiques how advancements like CRISPR challenge our notions of identity, ethics, and the very fabric of humanity. The conversation humorously imagines a future where genetic traits dictate social hierarchies and romantic choices. Žižek also highlights the urgent need for responsible biogenetic research amidst the complexities of capitalism and societal inequalities, all while drawing eye-opening parallels to our current global crises.
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Bio-Identity
- Biogenetics, by linking human identity directly to the genome, initially saw human identity as a universal expression of our shared genetic code.
- Further research revealed diversity within the human genome and similarities with other species, shifting the focus to human uniqueness and integrity.
Biogenetic Commons
- The discoveries around the human biogenome created a new form of public and commons, viewing the human genome as a shared heritage.
- Participants in biogenetic research, considered citizens, contribute to population biobanks as a public resource.
Commodification vs. Commons
- Services like 23andMe commodify genetic information by focusing on individual identity rather than a public commons.
- Active resistance to this commodification is seen in the information commons of genomics, which prohibits patents and promotes immediate data release.