Kaestle is an assistant professor in the anthropology department and is also associated with the biology department, the Institute of Molecular Biology, and the Human Biology Program. Her research focuses on the patterns and causes of human genetic variation around the world, as well as ethical considerations of studying human genetics. She also does some forensic work. She hopes students will enjoy exploring various dining opportunities around Bloomington with her.
Courses
Brave New Biology: New Human Genetics and Your Future
The world is surrounded by new advances in genetics, especially human genetics. A doctor can choose the right dosage of antibiotics and assess risk of Alzheimer's disease based on a person's genes; people can choose the sex and even immune system of a pre-implanted child through genetic screening; hair color can be predicted if genetic material is left behind at the scene of a crime; DNA can be tested to see if an individual is a descendent from Thomas Jefferson or people living in West Africa (or both); a patented hypoallergenic cat can be purchased. These are just a few examples of the implications of the latest discoveries in genetics, which are being applied widely in the fields of medicine, reproduction, plant and animal breeding, forensics, and even genealogy.
The image of the gene has also come to permeate popular culture, becoming a cultural icon with almost magical powers. Are people buying cars because ads claim it has 'good genes'? After watching the CSI television series is it common knowledge to clean a crime scene with bleach to destroy DNA? Can 'fat genes' be blamed for a person's weight? How many people watched Oprah when she discovered that she is likely descended from the Kpelle people in Liberia?
What is the science behind these advances? What are the ethical, social, political, and legal implications of the increasing popular acceptance of genetic explanations and trust in genetic science to solve today's problems?
This seminar will deal with recent developments in the field of genetics. New biomedical applications of genetic advances to tailor medical treatment to a person's genes and understanding medical risks will be viewed as to the hope it provides toward improving individual lives, but also how much scientific support exists for some of these tests, who has access to them, and how has big business seeking profits shaped their development.
Students will take a two-pronged approach to the study of genetics, emphasizing the scientific basis for each application of genetic knowledge, but also considering the many ethical issues raised by the new procedures and discuss how some choices may conflict with certain values and belief systems.
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