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Re-Examining the Gene in Personalized Genomics

Bartol, Jordan (2012) Re-Examining the Gene in Personalized Genomics. [Published Article]

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    Abstract

    Personalized Genomics companies (PG; also called ‘Direct-to-Consumer Genetics’) are businesses marketing genetic testing to consumers over the Internet. While much has been written about these new businesses, little attention has been given to their roles in science communication. This paper provides an analysis of the gene concept presented to customers and the relation between the information given and the science behind PG. Two quite different gene concepts are present in company rhetoric, but only one features in the science. To explain this, we must appreciate the delicate tension between PG, academic science, public expectation, and market forces.

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    Item Type: Published Article
    Additional Information: To appear in Science and Education
    Keywords: Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing; DTC; Genes; Genetic Determinism; Science Communication; Public understanding of genetics
    Subjects: Specific Sciences > Biology > Molecular Biology/Genetics
    General Issues > Science and Society
    General Issues > Science Education
    Depositing User: Mr Jordan Bartol
    Date Deposited: 30 May 2012 06:33
    Last Modified: 30 May 2012 06:33
    Item ID: 9127
    Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11191-012-9484-2
    URI: http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/9127

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