LIFECODE DILEMMA

 

PROGRAM: Scientific Exhibition

RESEARCH QUESTION: How can genetic engineering contribute to a better understanding of family and social development?

ABOUT: The Lifecode Dilemma is an optimistic tale of what the future could hold for humankind within synthetic biology. The experience illustrates the positive pathway humans could adopt as a result of living in a society where science is democratised and capitalism isn't the only viable political and economic system. Through the protagonist's journal, the use of lights, typographical posters and projections; the visitors are invited to reflect on the future of healthcare and human reproduction and the narrative should inspire the audience to ponder the following questions: How will the idea of human nature change? How will biotechnologies heal and transform the human body? How will taking direct control of our evolution look like to generations to come? Should we rewrite our children's genome and how far will we go?

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The nonlinear narrative technique was chosen to uncover the advantages and disadvantages of CRISPR genome editing in humans and to explore its possible impact on individuals and families. We are at the forefront of a genetic revolution; which brings the emergence of a new type of society; with new capabilities, desires, emotions, and identities.

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The experience not only investigates the meaning that lies beyond biological and non biological inheritance but also invites the visitor to actively participate by choose on of the two scenarios. This highlights the decision of what is right and wrong - an introspective question - and we should respect each other's choice when approaching these technologies.