In The Limits and Lies of Human Genetic Research, Jonathan Kaplan weighs in on the controversial subject of the roles genes play in determining aspects of physical and behavioral human variation. Limits and Lies makes the case that neither the information we have on genes, nor on the environment, is sufficient to explain the complex variations among humans.

First Published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

In The Limits and Lies of Human Genetic Research, Jonathan Kaplan weighs in on the controversial subject of the roles genes play in determining aspects of physical and behavioral human variation. Limits and Lies makes the case that neither the information we have on genes, nor on the environment, is sufficient to explain the complex variations among humans.

This bioethics anthology exploring the questions and controversies surrounding the innovations of 21st century genetics. When the Human Genome Project completed its work in the early 2000s, it was hailed as a watershed moment in the history of medicine. But not everyone felt the same optimism about where the breakthrough might lead. The Double-Edged Helix explores the impact of recent genetic discoveries on society as a whole as well as individual populations and communities. This volume outlines potential positive and negative effects of genetic research on minorities, individuals with disabilities, and those of diverse sexual orientations. Presenting a wide array of perspectives, contributors address the medical and ethical implications of newly available technologies, from prenatal genetic screenings to the so-called “gay gene” debates. They emphasize the need to ensure that genetics research does not lead to discrimination against people on the basis of their DNA. A Choice Magazine Outstanding Academic Title

In this timely, provocative new book, Lois Wingerson explores advances in human genetic research--and how these advances are redefining the way we view ourselves and our world. Every week brings word of new genetic findings. It no longer startles us to read that a gene has been identified that predisposes an individual to breast cancer, to colon cancer, to Alzheimer's disease. From physical illnesses to behavioral traits, the mapping of our genes is moving with astonishing rapidity. Soon we will have extraordinary amounts of information about our most intimate selves. But--as this insightful, sometimes disturbing book makes clear--this new knowledge raises serious ethical, legal, and personal questions none of us can afford to ignore. On the heels of each new finding comes the capacity to test for the disorder the gene may activate, then the test itself--and then the questions. Just because the test is available, should we have it? The tests are often marketed by for-profit companies. Who is to determine what conditions warrant testing? Should it be up to the individual? A group of experts? A government agency? If a person learns he or she carries the gene for a particular disorder, what then? And, in the age of medical claim forms and computer networks, who else has access to that information? What if an employer finds out? If an insurance carrier denies future coverage? What about conceiving a child? Subjecting the fetus to prenatal genetic testing? If treatments for the condition lie well in the future, what benefit is it to know you or your child carry that gene? As the latest genetic breakthroughs make their way from the scientists' laboratories into individuals' lives, we will all face questions like these. In clear and accessible language, "Unnatural Selection takes us into the world of the researchers, physicians, ethicists, families, and people like ourselves as they contemplate the promise and consider the pitfalls of this exploding field of knowledge.

Can our DNA predict our future health? What are the dangers of cloning? What would you do about genetically modified food? People look at genetic research and claim that it can cause problems. They say that once certain genetic experiments and procedures are allowed, genetic research might be hard to control. Will the scientists know when to stop? But many people do not agree. They say that genetic research has the chance to create cures for diseases. It might help us feed the hungry. Do we have the right to delay research that could help those suffering from Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease? People have been arguing about genetic research since DNA was discovered. Have you ever thought about genetic research? Are the advantages worth the risks? This book does not tell you what to think. But it will help you join in the debate. Features of the series: Techniques for thinking critically and creatively A wealth of facts and opinions Ideas for organizing debates and discussions Book jacket.