Ethical Issues in Human Genetics
Genetic Counseling and the Use of Genetic Knowledge
By: Bruce Hilton
"The Bush administration and Congress are in concert on the goal of developing a fleet of unmanned aircraft that can reduce both defense costs and aircrew losses in combat by taking on at least the most dangerous combat missions. Unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) will be neither inexpensive enough to be readily expendable nor-- at least in early development-- capable of performing every combat mission alongside or in lieu of manned sorties. Yet the tremendous potential of such systems is widely recognized, and allies as well as potential adversaries are moving quickly to mount their own research and development programs. The United States is committed to fielding UCAV capabilities by 2010, principally for the missions of suppression of enemy air defense and deep strike, which are among the highest risk tasks for the Air Force and naval aviation."--Overview.
AI Overview
"Ethical Issues in Human Genetics" by Bruce Hilton is a comprehensive volume that explores the ethical dimensions of genetic knowledge and its application in human genetics. The book is a collection of essays and discussions from a symposium sponsored by the Institute of Society, Ethics, and the Life Sciences, edited by Bruce Hilton along with Daniel Callahan, Maureen Harris, and Peter Williams.
Key Themes
Genetic Counseling: The book delves into the ethical considerations surrounding genetic counseling, including the responsibilities of counselors, the potential for misuse of genetic information, and the impact on individuals and families.
Use of Genetic Knowledge: It examines the ethical implications of using genetic knowledge in various contexts, such as prenatal diagnosis, genetic screening, and the potential for eugenics.
Social Ethics: The volume addresses broader social ethical issues, including the distribution of genetic information, privacy concerns, and the potential for discrimination based on genetic data.
Professional Responsibility: It discusses the professional responsibilities of scientists, clinicians, and counselors in handling genetic information, emphasizing the need for informed consent and respect for autonomy.
Philosophical Perspectives: The book incorporates philosophical perspectives on the nature of genetic information, the concept of genetic determinism, and the moral implications of manipulating the human genome.
Plot Summary
The book does not have a traditional narrative plot but rather presents a series of essays and discussions that cover various aspects of ethical issues in human genetics. It includes contributions from experts in ethics, genetics, and related fields, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of genetic ethics.
Critical Reception
The book received positive reviews for its comprehensive and timely exploration of the ethical issues arising from advances in human genetics. Here are some key points from the critical reception:
Robert Roger Lebel’s Review: In a review published in The Linacre Quarterly, Robert Roger Lebel praised the book for its thorough examination of the ethical dimensions of genetic knowledge. He noted that the volume provided a necessary framework for understanding the complex issues involved in genetic counseling and the use of genetic information.
Philosophical Insights: The book was also commended for its philosophical insights, which helped readers understand the deeper moral implications of genetic research and its applications.
Relevance and Timeliness: The publication in 1973 was seen as highly relevant given the rapid advancements in genetics at that time. The book's focus on ethical considerations helped set a standard for future discussions in the field.
"Ethical Issues in Human Genetics" by Bruce Hilton and his co-editors remains a seminal work in the field, providing a foundational understanding of the ethical complexities surrounding genetic knowledge and its applications. Its continued relevance is evident in ongoing debates about genetic privacy, informed consent, and the responsible use of genetic information.