Next. Michael Crichton. London: Harper-Collins Publishers. 2006. ISBN 13 9780 00 7248995

Next. Michael Crichton. London: Harper-Collins Publishers. 2006. ISBN 13 9780 00 7248995

Those who see in Genetic Engineering the miracle of God through the hand of man, beware! Crichton’s novel, ‘Next’ is a blend of fact and alarming fiction that throws up possibilities of a genetically engineered living organism becoming a threat to the very moral fibre of society.

The novel is technically supported by research into the study of genes: a master gene to control other people, transgenic pets such as Giant cockroaches, permanent puppies, genetic cures for drug addiction and more such bizarre realities of the future in the realm of genetic engineering. There is also Duke, the talking chimpanzee and Gerard the parrot with uncanny human intelligence to think and feel – the prospects seem cute at first, but gradually become threatening.

The ruthless chase of the Burnetts who are pursued across the country for their cells patented by BioGen , a company which claims ownership of all future generations of Burnetts is a little creepy.

The role of universities in generating mindless research into human genomes is also highlighted in the novel. The Oxnard Judge puts an end to all such degenerative activities by ruling out the case against the Burnetts by proclaiming, “Our bodies are our individual property. In a sense, bodily ownership is the most fundamental kind of ownership we know. It is the core of our being”. That, ultimately, is what the book is about.

Patenting of genes, guidelines for the use of human tissues and the right to information on data about gene testing are dealt with in the most exciting, tense and racy style. Making the right choice in using Genetic Engineering is in our hands.

Crichton only tells us what will happen if we do not use our moral discretion.