The Code Breaker by Walter Isaacson
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​Word Count: 360 / Time: 3 minute read.
Short Summary: The Code Breaker covers the story of Jennifer Doudna, a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist, as she works to develop the applications of CRISPR (a system that can remove, add, or alter parts of the genome) in order to make gene editing possible. It offers a compelling narration of the events that happen as well as basic information about the technology.
(Source: Photography by Tulane University)
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Who is the author?
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Walter Isaacson is the former chair of CNN and editor of Time.
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He has published many books, including Leonardo da Vinci, Steve Jobs, and Benjamin Franklin: An American Life.
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Why it matters: Isaacson covers the practical use cases of the CRISPR technology, combining his descriptions with a discussion on the morality of the technology regarding the editing of human embryos. He also mentions the role CRISPR played during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Lessons from Isaacson: Isaacson gives a detailed account of the competitive world of scientific research. Moments of competition, teamwork and hard work driven by aspiration, praise, and criticism are described in detail.
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Although this book focuses more on Jennifer Doudna’s experiences rather than the details of the technology itself, there are explanations regarding the basics of the technology and its applications that are easy to understand.
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The pieces of information, along with the real-life descriptions of the scientific research industry, makes this book a handy introduction to the field.
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The morality issues that follow scientific breakthroughs are discussed in the book. Editing the embryos would mean that children may possibly be born with certain chosen traits. Isaacson discusses the importance of the line which we should not cross when editing the genome.
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