Can Ethics Limit Science? Synthetic Life Pioneer Craig Venter on Pushing Boundaries

Are there enough mavericks in science today? Bioethicist Insoo Hyun and geneticist Craig Venter delve into this question, discussing the balance between ethics and innovation. Venter, renowned for his contributions to sequencing the human genome and creating synthetic life, engages in a comprehensive conversation about the purpose of science and the moral considerations it entails. This discussion offers an insightful examination of how ethical considerations impact scientific progress, shedding light on the intricacies of modern genetic research.

The conversation spans a range of topics, including Venter's approach to digitizing biology, his perspectives on CRISPR technology, the current state of scientific research in the U.S., and the necessity of a maverick approach in science that emphasizes pushing boundaries for breakthroughs. Venter concludes with an exploration of his ongoing research at the J. Craig Venter Institute, particularly focusing on human longevity and pre-symptomatic testing.