Sociological Perspectives on the New Genetics

We are at the dawn of a new age. The Human Genome Project, the largest biological research enterprise in history, promises to have our entire genetic structure mapped by 2001. Our media report new scientific claims of genes associated with diseases, conditions, behaviours or personality traits so regularly that it seems that we are being provided with a gene-of-the week. The new genetics revolution has ramifications far beyond the esoteric science of molecular biological laboratories. The rising genetic paradigm is influencing how we think about life, including disease and disability, human capacities and failings, social problems, kinship and the quality of life.

This is the first volume to draw together a range of sociological perspectives on the new genetics. The chapters are organized around three key themes:

1. How genetic knowledge is produced and structured, including professional perspectives and public images;


2. The role of genetic counselling and lay perspectives on social meanings of genetics;


3. The impact and implications of the new genetics for society.

The nine papers demonstrate the social context of genetics and provide an important reminder that issues around genetics are not limited to genetic disorders or identified genetic susceptibilities, but rather the new genetics is likely to affect all of us.