we can be replaced by machines

[vark]

www.ted.com/talks/geraldine_hamilton_body_parts_on_a_chip.html

ted talk about doing drug research on biochips instead of us. doesn't affect now, but in 5 or 10 years we could be obsolete.

[idoitforthepong]

Interesting talk... i think the chips would be great, especially from a ethical standpoint, to cut down on animal testing and the examples in the cosmetics and household cleaner industries would be a good thing.

The speech does not make a good case at all though for replacing humans as test subjects. Yes the example for mimicking children and others that can't be considered a "average" test subject might help, but i don't see how this can take the place of real human. Putting different chips together to mimic a body is still way off of the mark compared to the totally functioning human body. And How would side effects get reported??

If there's a threat to our work (and maintaining a living with) as subjects more use of VCT, consolidating clinics, and using overseas subjects may be more realistic. These examples and the possibility of my health declining and going on meds makes me work on that "back up career"...as much as i love labrating (no sarcasm) it probably isn't a true calling!

[David Grey]

I thought we'd be cloned like in The Island and one day my clone would become self aware and escape