Raising The Dead By Brian Switek

Raising the Dead

Every year, more than 10,000 species worldwide become extinct. However, that could soon change, as scientists say it may be possible to bring them back to life. The process to do so, called “de-extinction,” is comprised of a multitude of techniques in cloning and genetic engineering, including the ability to obtain the DNA of an extinct animal, then insert it into the egg of a living relative. While it may seem like an new and exciting discovery, some scientist are wondering if bringing animals back to life is the right way to save the Earth’s endangered species. Reintroducing extinct animals could hurt today's ecosystems, lead to unforeseen consequences, and promote disregard to the current mass extinction problem. Many experts

Brian Switek, a critically acclaimed writer for National Geographic, admits “to bring back a species that no longer has a place in the world would be irresponsible” (Switek). Many of the environments that extinct species inhabited have changed significantly since they lived there. If a once-extinct species is reintroduced, it could become an invasive species that disrupts the current ecosystem. Switek also adds that “a long extinct species would have a hard time fitting into the modern world” (Switek). The setting into which a species is placed strongly affects its roles and impacts on the environment. Therefore, by inserting a new species into a changed environment, it would not simply return to its former role. Although some argue that damaged or jeopardized ecosystems could be restored with the help of certain extinct species, it is nearly impossible to accurately predict the impacts of re-introducing a species. The chances for a negative outcome or a worsening of the ecosystem is highly probable, which should make scientists contemplate the potential ramifications before moving forward with plans to reintroduce extinct

David Ehrenfeld, a biology professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey, points out that “tens of thousands of species are in decline or on the verge of extinction because of overhunting, climate change, pollution, and habitat loss” (Ehrenfeld). Enforcing de-extinction research diverts money, time, and attention from current conservation projects. Ehrenfeld fears that if scientists are able to revive extinct animals, society will become unconcerned with keeping endangered species from becoming extinct in the first place. Although some individuals insist that the knowledge gained from de-extinction science may help save current species, no one can say for certain, given the situation of the current extinction rate. Preventing existing endangered species from going extinct should take precedence over reintroducing species already gone. This transfer of focus is yet another potential negative result of de-extinction