Overview
Human genetics is not the playground of science alone. Genetics concerns all of us, for we all have DNA, genes, genomes, and chromosomes. In fact, our genes determine our appearance and our behaviour. They even define our talents and our health risks. The authors of The Human Recipe explain clearly and with humour what exactly is understood by human genetics. With anecdotes and topical examples they demonstrate how genetics interferes with our everyday lives. What if a DNA analysis reveals that your biological father is someone else than the person you have been calling dad for years? Why do Africans excel in athletics, Asians in gymnastics, and Europeans mainly in sports testing physical strengths? What is the difference between a genetic disease and a contagious illness? The newest developments in human genetics also raise ethical questions and provoke actual debates which the authors do not bypass. Why are many people reluctant to the conception of designer babies and less to rescue babies? Is it possible to eliminate cancer? And are preventive surgeries and amputations the most appropriate solutions to do so? What about privacy in DNA research and forensic databases? Can DNA be stolen and is this considered a serious crime? The Human Recipe is a smart guide to all you want to know about human genetics in our current society.
Full Product Details
Author: Pascal Borry ,
Gert Matthijs
Publisher: Leuven University Press
Imprint: Leuven University Press
Dimensions:
Width: 14.00cm
, Height: 1.50cm
, Length: 21.60cm
Weight: 0.340kg
ISBN: 9789462700727
ISBN 10: 9462700729
Pages: 220
Publication Date: 19 December 2016
Audience:
General/trade
,
General
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: In Print
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Reviews
The title of this book itself The Human Recipe illustrates the tongue in cheek approach of the authors to genetic determinism. We find rare and provocative, multidisciplinary insights and perceptions into the socio-ethical issues surrounding both reproductive technologies, genetic research and clinical genetics. Accessible and yet as complex and human as genetic information itself - a must read! - Bartha Maria Knoppers, Center of Genomics and Policy/McGill University) En consecuencia, recomendamos encarecidamente la lectura de este inspirador libro que trata cuestiones de gran calado de manera divulgativa —e incluso, en ocasiones, en clave de humor—, consiguiendo con esta vía que la genética humana se vuelva accesible para todos. Elena Atienza Macías, Law and Human Genome Review. Genetics, Biotechnology and Advanced Medicine / Revista de Derecho y Genoma Humano. Genética, Biotecnología y Medicina Avanzada, nr 47 _____ * Law and Human Genome Review. Genetics, Biotechnology and Advanced Medicine / Revista de Derecho y Genoma Humano. Genética, Biotecnología y Medicina Avanzada *
Author Information
Pascal Borry is Assistant Professor of Medical Ethics at KU Leuven-University of Leuven. Gert Matthijs is Professor of Molecular Genetic Engineering in the Department of Human Genetics at KU Leuven-University of Leuven.
