vortex-l  

RE: [Vo]:Is Galileo's DNA still viable?

Jones Beene
Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:45:24 -0800

This brings up the "nature vs nurture" debate - BUT - also let's update the
scenario in a modern techno-context ... IOW don't overlook that fact that we
are approaching a future where, due to artificial intelligence and "expert
systems", it might be possible to maximize both nature and nurture - at the
same time and in the same individual.

Not sure how that would work, in actual practice, but it would rely heavily
on computerized training and enforced hardship - but should be able
(eventually) to mitigate the problem of the 'spoiled rich kid' or the
underachiever who is rebelling against too much familial pressure ... 

... this is starting to sound like neo-eugenics, eh?



-----Original Message-----
From: Mauro Lacy 

> Of course, there is *zero assurance* that the "clone of a genius" will
> follow in the footsteps of the progenitor, and likewise rise to the same
> level of accomplishment

I dare to make a prediction: if human cloning is achieved and done(and we
all know it will be, in some not so distant future) the clones will be
radically different from the original individual.

Not in physical aspect and abilities, of course, but I think that many
people will be greatly surprised about what a poor student Galileo's clone
will be: a student of median intelligence, with no interest whatsoever in
physics and astronomy.

Best regards,
Mauro