The Promise and Peril of Genetics

Scientists can now comprehensively scan the genome, testing variation across millions of genetic markers. Large consortia of scientists are analyzing data from millions of individuals. Multivariate methods enable scientists to identify genes involved in “normal” processes rather than specific disorders or traits. These advances can have a widespread effect on medicine and society. However, such rapid progress brings ethical, social, and legal challenges, including the need for increased diversity to ensure that all people benefit from advances in the field. To discuss this research, Dr. Teresa Treat, Professor of Psychology at University of Iowa, interviews Danielle M. Dick, Professor at the Department of Psychiatry and researcher at the Rutgers Addiction Research Center, at Rutgers University.