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The Genomic Era
Fathom
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| Seminar Introduction |
 On June 26, 2000, geneticists announced to the world that they had successfully deciphered the human genome. Many have suggested that we are standing at the dawn of the genomics era. This discovery opened thousands of new doors for scientific research, offering untold opportunities for better health, longer lives and richer human understanding. At the same time, it raised a host of ethical questions about the role that genetic information can and should play in society. As we unlock the secrets that lie within our chromosomes, will we be forced to reexamine even the most fundamental aspects of our lives? This seminar explores both the possibilities and the problems associated with the genomic era, and provides a basic primer of human genetics. Using three imaginary scenarios, it delves into the ethical, moral and legal dilemmas society may face as a result of developing genetic technologies. Will new susceptibility information lead to more lawsuits and more pressure to ban certain chemicals? Is it possible genetic discrimination or genetic castes could appear even in a world of absolute genetic privacy? How might new technologies be used by other cultures with different value systems? These and other difficult questions will need to be addressed by scientists, policymakers and ethical and religious leaders as we face the beginning of the genomics era.
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| Learning Objectives |
- Define DNA, RNA and codon.
- Describe how DNA is replicated, read and converted into a protein.
- List three dilemmas raised by new discoveries in molecular biology.
- Learn how the increasing availability of individualized risk information could impact tort litigation.
- Explore the consequences that reduced uncertainty regarding health status and disease risk might have on our society.
- Evaluate how genetic technologies have the capacity to enhance the gap between socioeconomic classes.
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| Sessions |
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| Credits |
Copyright 2001, RAND.
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| Technical Requirements |
To appreciate this seminar experience, it is critical that you have the appropriate software, plug-ins, and network connections. Please take the time to download the latest versions of the plug-ins mentioned below if you do not already have them.
Browser: Netscape versions 4.x up to 4.76, or Internet Explorer versions 4.x or later. Your browser must have JavaScript enabled and must be set to accept cookies.
Network Connection: The recommended minimum connection is 56K modem with throughput of 34Kbps or more. A faster connection is encouraged to take better advantage of the media elements in the seminar. Plug-ins: If you do not have RealPlayer and Flash Player already installed, please download them from the following sites:
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