Call for Papers
  Submission deadline: March 31, 2007
   
  We invite abstracts for papers, roundtable discussions, and presentation/lectures on any topic related to (un)natural selection, genetics, and eugenics and their representation in the works of novelist and futurist Robert A. Heinlein.
   
  Many of Heinlein's short stories and novels include characters who are products of careful genetic manipulation or other forms of unnatural selection. A prime example is the Howard Families, most especially Lazarus Long. By exploring the scientific and ethical consequences of unnatural selection, Heinlein uncovered both potential benefits and hazards of taking control of human evolution, or certain aspects thereof.
   
  All topics related to genetics, eugenics, and unnatural selection are welcome. Suggested topics include:
   
  --The Howard Families
   
  --Genetic engineering
   
  --Selective breeding
   
  --Ethical debates over unnatural selection
   
  --Consequences (both positive and negative) of genetic manipulation
   
  The Robert A. Heinlein Centennial wil be held July 6-8, 2007, in Kansas City, Missouri. Honored guests include Buzz Aldrin, author Spider Robinson, X Prize founder Dr. Peter Diamandis, most recently named Grand Master of Science Fiction James Gunn, and Sir Arthur C. Clarke, addressing the Gala via video.
   
  The Centennial will include an academic conference, called the Centennial Academic Summit, which will contain an entire track dedicated to genetics studies. Participants will have various opportunities to publish their work following the conference.
   
  Please submit a 250-word abstract for a paper, roundtable discussion, or lecture to Lisa Edmonds D'Amico, chairperson of the Academic Summit, at lisa.edmonds [at] heinleincentennial [dotcom]. The deadline for abstract submission will be March 31, 2007.
   
  
  For more information on the Centennial events and registration, please visit www.heinleincentennial.com.
   
  For more information about getting involved with Robert A. Heinlein studies in general and publication opportunities, visit www.rahstudies.org and www.heinleinsociety.org.

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Received on Sat Mar 03 2007 - 16:00:01 EST