Future Perfect: Confronting Decisions about Genetics

Many books on genetics only address issues of interest to scientists or ethical studies programs: Future Perfect outlines some issues and solutions for individuals making decisions based on genetic testing and facts, providing the first insights into how such results can change self-images, relationships, and families. Chapters cover all aspects of genetic issues; from business and employer concerns to family make-up and inherited traits.

I bought this book after hearing Lori speak at a forum at the University of Washington. While this is a book primarily about public policy (what our government should do about making laws covering genetic testing), it covers all aspects of genetics, from a history of genetic testing to the ways in which genetic testing information have been used and abused in our society. I came away worried about our future but hopeful that we could use the new information that genetic testing provides, without considering it the end of the line. Genetics are one piece of information that need to be considered along with ethics, other medical information, and personal beliefs.