Genetics expert to speak at Sisters Library

In this time of breakthroughs in the fields of genetic research and engineering, people are asking fundamental questions like: What does it mean to be human? Are we more than our genetic code?

Chautauqua Scholar Greg Fowler will speak at the Sisters Library on Monday evening, May 6.

His topic will be "Redefining Humanity: Moral and Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering."

Dr. Fowler is the founder and director of Geneforum, an organization which attempts to educate non-scientists about science and the societal implications of science and technology.

One goal of the organization is to stimulate dialogue on technical subjects and to determine the desires of our communities regarding the future directions of genetic research.

Information gathered is then used to directly affect state policy and legislation.

According to Dr. Fowler Geneforum hopes to "link informed public values to real-time policy deliberations."

The presentation, which is part of the Oregon Council for the Humanities Chautauqua series, will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free.