Biotechnology: Demystifying the Concepts not only presents key concepts in biotechnology but examines the far-reaching social, ethical and political issues raised by this evolving field. The text begins with basic scientific concepts, then guides students through multi-staged biotechnical applications, and finally explores biotechnologys effects on todays society and on future generations. Abundant examples, based on real life issues, illustrate and clarify topic discussions.   Features   A self-contained reader/reference, the text is appropriate for non-majors and general education students who have little or no science background. Clear, engaging writing style addresses science and its impact on society. Issue boxes highlight significant controversial scientific projects such as the Human Genome Project, bioethics, and HIV/AIDS that derive from biotechnology. They provide further exploration into the non-science components of the topics presented. Essays explore concepts, concerns, or problems. These aids tend to focus on broad topics such as genetic determinism, vaccine availability, and multiple uses of recombinant DNA. Special Icons in the text margin denote Principles (scientific principles, techniques, or methods), social or ethical Issues, and Applications. Review questions at the end of each chapter test students' understanding of the material. Contents An Introduction to Living Things. Molecular Biology: The Flow of Information within Cells. Chromosomes, Cell Division, and Sexual Reproduction. Mendelian Genetics. Mutations and Genetic Disease. Complexities of Genetics: Polygenes, Behavioral Traits, and Eugenics. Biological Control. Genetic Engineering: Tools and Techniques. More Genetic Engineering: Analysis of DNA and Applications. Genetic Disease and Gene Therapy. Immunology. Monoclonal Antibody Technology. AIDS and HIV. Cancer. The Business of Biotechnology in the United States. Biotechnology in the Developing World. What Now?