On the New Frontiers of Genetics and Religion . They enroll in classes to learn self-actualization and personality enhancement. They exercise vigorously, hoping to become not only healthy but socially acceptable and sexually attractive. They pay plastic surgeons to rebuild chins and noses and carve thinner waistlines.
Athletes use steroids to enhance their already impressive muscles.
Cranial hair is dyed various colors, while wigs cover what is left of hair, or else hairs are implanted like shoots of rice. Cosmeticians cover natural blemishes and wrinkles, while permanent indelible skin decorations are executed by the tattooer's needle. Already in use commercially since 1985 is the artificial human growth hormone, a cousin to the one for cattle called bovine somatotropin. The human growth hormone is effective when taken regularly before puberty. Smallness of stature or actual dwarfism need not be called a disease, but it is considered a serious disadvantage socially, economically, and, for some, psychologically.