What are the ethical, legal, practical and social implications of these applications of research in behavioural genetics?
What, in your view, might be the effect of research in behavioural genetics on our understanding of health, illness, disability and abnormality? Some respondents suggested that research in behavioural genetics should give a better understanding of health and illness, leading to important therapies and improved social and practical support. Others were concerned that the research could also help reduce prejudice. However, there were concerns about the possibility of the medicalisation of traits which are not currently thought of as medical problems. In addition, it was suggested that behavioural genetics could lead to an erosion of moral responsibility. Many respondents questioned what was meant by health and normality, and who should decide on these definitions. It was observed that fashions, cultures and perceptions can all affect how normal behaviour is defined. Is there a moral difference between the correction of a trait thought to be the result of a genetic abnormality or defect,
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