Oryx and Crake

Introduction

'Oryx and Crake' is the work of a Canadian novel writer, Margaret Atwood. The novel is labeled as being a science fiction; however, Atwood has denied this by stating that the novel is not a science fiction work, rather it is an “adventure romance” or “speculative fiction”. She believes that the novel does not discuss any un-invented thing; in fact, the novel is in line with the realism that she attaches to the novel. The novel is a mere extrapolation, arising from latest technological and scientific advances, carrying prevailing economic and social developments and their attendant moral and ethical choices (Gnanamony, pp. 224-235).

Discussion

The novel, Oryx and Crake, is a critical examination of scientific and technological developments that include genetic engineering and xenotransplantation, specifically the development of animals, which are transgenic; wolvogs (hybrid between dogs and wolves). The present day society supports and promotes such severe commodification and commercialization of life; broadening the divide between the rich and poor, also the commodification of sexuality and human life in online child pornography and prostitution.

Philosophical and Anthropological explanations regarding the identity of human have always been unified and restrained by the built-in basis of identity of humans into biology. All the individuals belonging to a human fraternity have shared similar evolutionary basis and shared ordering of genes, i.e. the DNA sequence. In the novel of Margaret Atwood, “Oryx and Crake”, the chemical enhancement and Genetic Engineering is an exception to the conception of humanity. It is challenging the basic humanity notion, adding to the burden of dystopian vision that is why this modification is becoming an image of the genre. This novel explores such ideas regarding humanity; specifically questioning the existence of the human race, in a holistic context, in its present form (Atwood, pp.20-56). The basic questions like what humanity is, what we may lose, what can eventually become, and who is the one responsible for decision making.

The primary definition of the human species involves various things: a genus Homo member and specifically of Homo sapiens species; showing or having the positive angles of character and nature, which are essential in creating a notable distinction and distinguishing the human species from the category of other animals; subjective or indicative of imperfection, fragility, and weakness that is associated with the social animal, i.e. human. The definition entails that "for anything to be declared as human" it should have all the qualities, characteristics, loopholes, faults, and virtues associated with being so. The vast, and ever-changing, world of science can change this conception; the human race may find them in a position where there would be no abnormalities and diseases. Bioethics is a division of ethics, social commentary and philosophy, which brings into consideration sciences that are in direct relation to the human race, and their possible impact on society. There is also opposition to the utilization of technology in such higher proportions (Gert et.al, pp. 23-45). Bioconservatism directly opposes the utilization of technology for expansion of human capacities or modification of various aspects ...