Survivor’s guilt, the mental condition that occurs when a person perceives themselves to have done wrong by surviving a traumatic event, was first diagnosed in the 1960s as a condition suffered by holocaust survivors. It was later observed as part of post traumatic stress related to combat, natural disasters and even work redundancies. Interestingly the [...]
Also tagged gene, guiltIf the family identity is derived from shared genetic makeup then what happens when a genetic condition arises de novo? Does the effected individual suddenly have a new identity? Would they now feel misaligned or somehow estranged from the family? And if so, would this individual then have a desire to begin their own dynasty? [...]
Also tagged identityWith knowledge of genetic information, what is the family narrative based upon? Does the family’s sense of identity become entwined with an experience of illness?
An ancestry chart traditionally accounts the family history of marriages, births and deaths. The Price family tree follows the story of the BRCA gene’s path throughout the generations.
A family identity constructed [...]
Introduction of genetic technologies resulted in the redefining of our conception of family. By prioritising biological rather than social relationships, geneticisation has led to the biologisation of kinship. (Finkler, 2005)
Emphasising our biological connectedness redefines our perceptions of the family structure. The social group which assembles the family has many grey areas generated by behaviours, the [...]
With genetic transparency family secrets can no longer exist. By constructing a family according to biological knowledge, social structures centered around monogamy and fidelity are reinforced. Genetic screening performed to find possible mutations can also unintentionally function as a paternity test, thus revealing any illicit affairs and disclosing family secrets.
Does genetic knowledge acts as a [...]
Very interestingly the UK’s no.1 family history site has chosen a name that reflects a biological perception of the notion of family.
As the site offers to Search for your ancestors in 669 million family trees, census, birth, marriages, death and military records, the genetic affiliation brings up questions. Are familial ties through marriage or adoption [...]
Precious metals are increasingly likely to be in the medication prescribed by hospitals. Gold, silver and platinum have each been the subject of rigorous scientific study recently - and they crop up in the most surprising places. (Peta Bee, The Golden Touch)
The use of precious metals in medicine and especially in cancer treatment is the [...]