Re:In Search for Cures, Scientists Create Multispecies Embryos
by tremon on Sunday May 22, 2016 @08:19AM
(#11748296)
Yet, I think "animal" was the worst word they could have chosen, because (as I said in another comment) the latter definition is directly from the Bible. Given that genetic manipulation evokes strong religious sentiment, the word is not neutral in this context.
a. A living organism which feeds on organic matter, typically having specialized sense organs and a nervous system and able to respond rapidly to stimuli; any living creature, including man.
b. In ordinary or non-technical use: any such living organism other than a human being.
In a technical context, such as a scientific journal, I expect that "animal" would include humans. In the headline of a science-focused mainstream media article, I think it's ambiguous. Given that the context, I think it's clear they're using the non-technical definition of the word.