Sep 10, 2018
Episode #18: BioHacking And EQ
We need to be developing our emotional intelligence to assist us in the evaluation of the opportunities and challenges we face. Our brain has the ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections but it takes focused practice over time. Brain plasticity or neurogenesis refers to our brain’s ability to change and develop new habits at any age. We need to add emotional intelligence to our tool box of skills and behaviors. The following is one example of the many the opportunities and challenges we face.
Geneticist Jennifer Doudna co-invented a groundbreaking new engineering technology for editing genes, called CRISPR/Cas9. This tool allows scientists to make precise edits to DNA strands, which could lead to treatments for genetic diseases but it could also be used to create so-called designer humans. Our ability to edit humanity is no longer science fiction.
The new CRISPR/Cas9 gene technology can enable scientists to change sequences of DNA and guarantee that the resulting genetic trait is inherited by future generations. This technology represents a new era in molecular biology by enabling targeted changes to the genome of living cells. CRISPR/Cas9 has the capability of altering an entire species including our own.
The technology has already begun being commercialized. For $150, you can buy a CRISPR kit online and use it to engineer heartier gut bacteria in your kitchen. This is thrilling, but it is also the source of potential nightmares. Doudna has asked the global scientific and investment communities to pause and begin discussing the ethics and societal issues surrounding this new technology.
The CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing break through is an example of the rapidly changing world in which we live. The status quo is being shattered while the seemingly impossible is being enabled. Our 500 million year old brain is not yet prepared to embrace the accelerating rate of change moving toward us. We risk being swept up by the tsunami of change headed our way. We need to begin the process of developing and enhancing our emotional intelligence now.
Our special guest today is Robert Kirkby. Robert
is President and CEO at Energy Advantage,
a Toronto Canada area company. https://www.linkedin.com/in/
Thanks so much for listening! If you like the show please subscribe to Master of Business Leadership and rate and review it wherever you get your podcasts. It really does help new listeners discover the show.
iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/master-of-business-leadership-podcast/id1335503365
Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/master-of-business-leadership?refid=stpr
Libsyn http://masterofbusinessleadership.libsyn.com
MBL Podcast http://masterofbusinessleadership.com
Phil Johnson on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipjpjohnson