DNA Diversity and You

Catalog description

This seminar focuses on the biochemistry, biology, and sociology of DNA and its use and potential for misuse. Even before the discovery of the human genome, the DNA that is the lattice of each human being has been thought to be static and determinative. More recently, with advances in sequencing that DNA, the emerging picture is much more complex. Even so, deeply held beliefs about being solely “my DNA” have persisted affecting our entire species. Students in this seminar are expected to critically discuss and examine the ethical and societal impacts of several topics related to DNA (e.g., artificial reproductive techniques, eugenics, bodily autonomy, definitions and treatment of diseases, neuroscience, epigenetics and the microbiome), as well as the underlying biology and biochemistry of DNA. Human identity and its relationship to DNA is examined using an interdisciplinary framework of perspectives, including those originating from biology, genetics, medicine, public health, psychiatry, religion, and the law. Students are expected to draw from their own experiences as an individual in reflection through the readings to complete the written coursework and participate each week in class discussion. This seminar also allows for expression in other modalities (e.g., visual or aural), in a two-part final class project consisting of a media component in addition to a final written assignment