Torch, Spring/Summer 2007

Transcendentalism: Simply Divine Transcendentalism holds that the material world is an illusory veneer over reality. Such an approach is what C.S. Lewis called the “Life-Force” philosophy, a view that imparts a spiritual nature to all of reality. According to transcendental thought, man’s nature is an extension of the divine oneness, and each person has existed and will exist forever. The transcendental religions have mixed attitudes toward biotechnology, but most fall on the negative side. For example, one Hindu scholar teaches, “This kind of activity is contrary to ethical and moral principles. Manipulating nature is greatly damaging our Holy Mother Earth.” Buddhists warn that genetic engineering can affect the whole of nature, and artificial manipulation results in suffering and death. “Harming life energy itself, even on the level of microorganisms, can have deleterious effects on more complex organisms because of the interconnectedness of all life,” states Buddhist scholar Dr. Ron Epstein. Theism: From the Hand of God The worldview of Theism holds that a personal God brought the universe and humanity into existence and continues to oversee His creation. Humans are not the product of transcendental emanation or of naturalistic evolution but the result of a purposeful choice. Humans are made in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). We reflect God’s nature in our artistic abilities (we create music, stories, and art), our rational abilities (we reason, reflect on our existence, etc.), and our moral nature (we display a sense of right and wrong). Even though we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), sin has marred humanity and the world, resulting in disease, suffering, and death. Humans also reflect the image of God when we rule over creation as God’s representatives (Genesis Spring-Summer 2007 5 1:28). In this role as stewards, our efforts in biotechnology have the most meaning. The use of science in medical research has produced untold benefits. Discovering ways to heal and prevent disease are blessings of science and reflect the healing ministry of Jesus. But there are downsides to biotechnology. Prenatal genetic screening could become the norm for deciding whether to continue a pregnancy if the unborn child has a disease, is handicapped, or even is the “wrong” sex. We may also have the ability to physically enhance our children (making them taller, smarter, blonder?). Is this a morally acceptable use of technology? The whims of a culture addicted to shallow notions of physical appearance and athletic prowess should make us concerned about the dehumanizing effects of genetic enhancement. Just because we can do something does not mean we should. Marshall W. Nirenberg, who won the Nobel Prize for Medicine, issued a warning: “When man becomes capable of instructing his own cells, he must refrain from doing so until he has sufficient wisdom to use the knowledge for the benefit of mankind.” As we race ahead in our scientific abilities, we cannot forget that God’s wisdom must be our guide. Dr. Bill Brown became president of Cedarville University in June 2003. A graduate of the University of South Florida, Brown holds a Th.M. and Ph.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary. As a nationally recognized expert in worldview, he has authored three worldview-related books and is the executive producer of the re:View worldview study ( www.re-films.com) . Read his blog at www.cedarville.edu/president . Humans are not the product of transcendental emanation or of naturalistic evolution but the result of a purposeful choice. T