Access to the Genome: The Challenge to Equality - Softcover

Mehlman, Maxwell J.; Botkin, Jeffrey R.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0878406786 ISBN 13: 9780878406784

Publisher: Georgetown University Press, 1998

Synopsis

Completion of the Human Genome Project will make possible a staggering array of new medical technologies, including new diagnostic and screening tests for inherited disorders, gene therapies, and the ability to manipulate a person's inherited, non-disease traits. Most of the attention given to the social implications of these technologies has focused on their potential to harm the individual, for example, by denying employment or insurance. This book explores instead the potential harm to society if we unfairly distribute the enormous benefits of genetic technologies. The resulting division of society into genetic haves and have-nots would undermine the basic foundation of Western democratic society - the belief in equality of opportunity. This book explains, in terms that can be understood by the general reader, how DNA works, what the Human Genome Project is, what these genetic technologies are and what they promise, and how they could disrupt our democratic society. In an original contribution to the literature, the book then discusses the alternatives for avoiding the creation of a genetic underclass, ranging from halting the Human Genome Project itself to making genetic technologies available without regard to ability to pay. The authors' provocative conclusion is that a lottery in which everyone has a chance to obtain access to these technologies is the only feasible option. This book will be of interest to anyone who wishes to learn more about the Human Genome Project and the genetic revolution that it will create, as well as those who already are familiar with the project and are concerned about the social consequences of its scientific developments.

About this title

About the Author

Maxwell J. Mehlman is the Arthur E. Petersilge Professor of Law and the director of the Law-Medicine Center at Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Jeffrey R. Botkin is an associate professor of pediatrics and medical ethics at the University of Utah.

Edition details

• Publisher: Georgetown University Press
• Publication date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0878406786
• ISBN 13: 9780878406784
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160