STS 286 - DNA, Bioethics, and Disruptive Technologies

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

Does our DNA determine our personality, intelligence, and who we will fall in love with? Should our own genetic information be private, or does the government have the right to genetic data? Should new and inexpensive gene manipulation technologies be accessible to anyone? This course examines the diverse ethical, legal, and social issues that have emerged from the study of genetics in the 21^st century. We discuss controversies and challenges raised by genetic technologies such as CRISPR, and consider the future challenges that may arise from the evolving study of genes and genomes. We examine the ethical, legal, and social implications of these topics using multiple frameworks, and also analyze the depiction of genetics in popular culture. Topics may include genetic determinism, the commercialization of genetic information, DNA databases and privacy, forensics, and DIY biohacking. No prior understanding of DNA or genetics is required. Nancy Jo Pokrywka.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS

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