Genetic Testing and the Use of Information

We are in the early years of a technological revolution arising from our understanding of the genetic meaning of life. Scientists' ability to manipulate and decode genes is advancing at an extraordinary pace - so fast we are often unprepared to handle the many vexing legal, economic, ethical and social issues they raise. The combination of genetic research and information technology raises often chilling questions of privacy and genetic discrimination. Should individuals be allowed personal property rights to their DNA, cells or tissues? How should policymakers regulate the biotechnology industry to maximize safety without stifling innovation? What are the appropriate uses of gene therapy and other genetic manipulations?

Long is an Abramson Research Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C., and a research fellow at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.