The Promises and Perils of Social and Behavioral Genomics

Catalog description

Since the late 19th century, claims regarding genetic differences have been used to justify a number of perversions: slavery, anti-miscegenation laws, the Holocaust, and unjust, inequitable social policies and structures. This controversial and turbulent history looms over current research in the emerging field of social and behavioral genomics (SBG). Using molecular, genome-wide data, SBG examines whether and how genetic differences between individuals shape differences in traits and outcomes such as income5, same-sex sexual behavior6, and educational attainment. On the one hand, there is optimism among some researchers that SBG might increase rigor in the social sciences and improve precision in the delivery of clinical care and social services (e.g., education). On the other hand, other researchers are concerned that SBG risks reinforcing essentialist narratives about the origins of social inequality, fueling white supremacist violence, exacerbating stigma and discrimination, and producing psychosocial harms. Notwithstanding the academic debate over the field's promises and perils, SBG data is more accessible to trained scientists and members of the public than ever before. Consumers can easily - and relatively cheaply - access direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing for a number of social and behavioral outcomes, including empathy, leadership potential, intelligence, reading ability, and math ability. Given the rapid rate with which genomic data is growing in availability and accessibility, this course introduces students to a range of social and ethical issues and analytical approaches pertaining to the nascent field of SBG. Students will be asked to consider and weigh the risks, benefits, and ethical responsibilities of this rapidly growing and evolving field. Through guest lectures, field trips, and case study explorations, students will come to understand:…