Jurassic Bark: The Ethics of De-Extinction

The ConverSAYtion

The boundary between science fiction and reality continues to blur as Colossal Biosciences pioneers the field of de-extinction. Their journey began with a simple yet profound question: could we bring extinct species back to life? Their answer comes in the form of woolly mice – adorably furry genetic experiments that serve as the first step toward their ultimate goal of resurrecting the woolly mammoth by 2028.
Led by entrepreneur Ben Lamb, Colossal has already created three dire wolves – extinct for over 12,500 years – now growing at an undisclosed 2,000-acre preserve. These achievements represent remarkable breakthroughs in genetic science, combining DNA recovered from preserved specimens with genetic material from living relatives. Through precise CRISPR technology, scientists modify specific genes that determine traits like hair thickness and fat storage capabilities.
But as we marvel at these scientific wonders, profound questions emerge about the purpose and ethics of de-extinction. While Colossal claims their mission centers on ecological restoration and repairing damaged ecosystems, skeptics point to the clear commercial opportunities: from future attraction parks featuring extinct creatures to novelty food products like mammoth steaks. The company's poetic mission statements about "reawakening Earth's lost wilds" stand in contrast to the entrepreneurial drive behind the venture.
Beyond ecological considerations, this technology opens doors to revolutionary applications, including enzymes capable of decomposing plastics in weeks instead of centuries. Yet the shadow of potential human genetic modification looms large – a field where ethical boundaries vary dramatically between countries, potentially creating a new kind of scientific arms race.
As we stand at this frontier of genetic science, we must ask ourselves: Just because we can resurrect extinct species, should we? And if we proceed, who will ensure this powerful technology serves our planet rather than merely our curiosity or commercial interests? Join us as we explore the woolly ethical territory of bringing extinct creatures back to life.

Chapters

1. Introduction to De-Extinction (00:00:00)

2. Woolly Mice: First Step Toward Mammoths (00:02:17)

3. Dire Wolves Return from Extinction (00:07:37)

4. Ecological Value or Scientific Showboating? (00:11:09)

5. Commercialization and Ethics of De-Extinction (00:17:27)

6. Future Applications and Emerging Concerns (00:26:00)

7. The New Cold War: Genetic Modification (00:33:50)