A new report looks into the ethical, legal and social issues that are raised by research into the influence of genes in behaviour.

We cannot say that there are genes 'for' various behavioural traits, such as anti-social tendencies or intelligence. Yet it's likely that there are genetic influences at work and, as the study of genes advances, these will become more clear.

Since this is an area that raises various ethical, legal and social concerns, the UK's Nuffield Council on Bioethics has just produced a report on behavioural genetics. First of all, they accept that such research can have benefits - for it may lead to new insights into human behaviour. But safeguards are needed too - if the research is looking at what can be considered part of the normal spectrum of human behaviour (rather than disorders like clinical depression). Individual genes are likely to have just a small impact on behaviour - environmental factors will be equally, if not more, important.

The Report reviews what we now know of genes and behaviour. It also looks at legal aspects - such as whether genetic factors could be considered alongside environmental and social causes as a defence against crime. Another aspect is the possible trend towards 'medicalisation' of normal variants of human behaviour, and the effect this might have on the health service. The Report is essential reading for anyone with an interest in genetics and behaviour.

Source

Nuffield Council on Bioethics (www.nuffieldbioethics.org) 2nd October 2002