To who does genetic information belong, the individual or the family? Is this information private or collective? Can genes and their functions even participate in any ownership debates?
Surprisingly, The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has granted thousands of patents on human genes – in fact, about 20 percent of our genes are patented. A gene [...]
When one decides to get tested they normally have themselves and any existing or future children in mind. However if a mutation is discovered, they suddenly find themselves thrown into the position of both decision maker and messenger in relation to their extended family members.
Is revealing genetic information to the family a duty, a choice [...]
The right not to know is an intriguing concept in this information age. Can knowledge be damaging? And within the genetic moral code, can ignorance be bliss?
Once genetic information is revealed without request, the potential carrier has to deal with the implications of this knowledge while not having the time to emotionally prepare. The privilege [...]
The employment of pre-implentation genetic diagnosis represents an approach to solving problems using science. Design as a discipline is defined as creative and functional method of problem solving. Science in its pure form is often likened to fine art, instigated by a quest for knowledge or understanding.
Applied science (or technology) resembles more applied art (design) [...]
Arribus-Allyson distinguishes between two forms of blame: internal states of the person (self-blame) or ethico-moral attributions to other persons (other-oriented responsibility). Self blame is intertwined with notions of guilt, however genetic other-oriented blame in the family sphere is more complex.
Holding one’s parents culpable for biological suffering has severe implications. Not only is this an action [...]
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 [...]