If one percent difference in DNA
divides what we are from the chimpanzee,
does our genetic code finally convey
the key to locating humanity?
Where in that percent does the self reside
that defines who I am in creation's scheme?
Could mapping our genomes produce the guide
that so far has stayed a philosopher's dream?
In seeking those traits distinctive to man,
the ones that distinguish us from the beast,
can we discover our place in God's plan,
determine our niche among great and least?
Consider the status we presuppose
when we compare creatures and codify -
what self-serving values have we imposed
on a system supposed to identify?
We've cited as proof our most complex thoughts
and how we communicate thought with speech
to claim supremacy o'er all God's wrought,
as if God's own rank lay within our reach.
Can chemical composition decide
who holds dominion above all the rest?
Can our domination be justified
by putting our DNA to the test?
Our questions are many, the answers few,
but science, I doubt, will have the last word,
for just who we are will stay under review
till the voice of who made us is finally heard.
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Author Notes
I presume no answers. I just ask, in a world where many creatures are endangered because of human behavior, should we be too proud of our dominion over all the beasts?
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