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Genetic Engineering in Contemporary Islamic Thought

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 September 2008

Vardit Rispler-chaim
Affiliation:
Department of Arabic Language and Literature, Haifa University, Haifa, Israel

Abstract

Muslims share with others both the interest in and the concern about genetic engineering. Naturally their reactions and views stem from general Islamic dogma and from Islamic medical ethics, but they are not unaware of Western scientific data. Particularly relevant is the Islamic religious prohibition against “changing what Allah has created.” Muslim muftis try to offer practical solutions for individuals. Islamic law is concerned about maintaining pure lineage. Consanguineous matings are very common, but induced abortions are usually ruled out. Cloning has reawakened among Muslims an old debate over the positive as well as hazardous aspects of genetic engineering.

Information

Type
Historical Perspectives
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1998

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