This is the blog for GW students taking Human Evolutionary Genetics. This site is for posting interesting tidbits on: the patterns and processes of human genetic variation;human origins and migration; molecular adaptations to environment, lifestyle and disease; ancient and forensic DNA analyses; and genealogical reconstructions.

GWHEG figure

GWHEG figure

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Erring on the Side of Sacred


In consideration of the Supreme Court ruling against Myriad, one could possibly anticipate the argument of 'life as sacred' from some religious communities. While this article provides some nuance regarding these communities (for example, suggesting they are not just bible-thumpers blocking progress), it also communicates the need for understanding the intersection between religion and science and the Supreme Court's ruling; is it possible that particular religious ideals and attitudes had a hand in the decisions of the justices? Especially when one considers that a 'naturally-occurring' entity cannot be patented according to the eligibility requirements, how pervasive are these attitudes already?

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