AAAS Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion

News & Events: Public Lecture

Ethical Issues Arising from the Study of the Human Genome
7 March 2002

 

The characterization of the human genome through the mapping and sequencing of human DNA is giving us new insight into our genetic heritage. This new genetic knowledge may also enable us to modify the human genome in order to treat disease or enhance or delete certain human traits. A number of ethical issues raised by our increased understanding of the human genome and the application of new genetic technologies will be addressed. What limits, if any, should we set to our growing genetic knowledge and technology?

Keynote speaker:

• Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the National Human Genome Research Institute
  

Respondent:

• Dr. Cynthia Cohen, Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University
  

Coverage:

Listen to Dr. Francis Collins
Listen to Dr. Cynthia Cohen
Read the Summary