A Lecture and Discussion Series on Bioethics and the Human Genome
April 19, 26, and May 17, 1995
Palace of Fine Ar
ts Theatre (adjoining the Exploratorium)
In conjunction with Diving Into the Gene Pool, The Exploratorium presents an unprecedented opportunity for the public to discuss the science and social issues
surrounding the exploration of the human genome with leaders in the field.
The Human Genome Project, an international effort to study human DNA, generates new information daily about the basis of human life. At the same time, each discovery raises n
ew questions about how this information will be used. While scientists define the process of "decoding" this information, ethicists, lawyers, clinicians, sociologists, theologians, and patients confront the task of placing the information into a social co
ntext.
We've gathered a group of leaders in these fields to pose some important questions to each other and to you, the audience.
- Mapping the human genome offers the ability to carefully and accurately identify individuals-but for what
purpose?
- How will this new knowledge be used?
- Who decides which diseases should be researched?
- Who owns the information about your genes?
- How is the media portraying this new technology?
- How can you influence the use of
this information-for yourself and for society?
Participate in the Discussion Series On-Line!
Read abstracts of the speakers's talks and submit your questions via e-mail to Anne Jennings (annej@exploratorium.edu). Replies to selected e-mail questions will be answered live during the program, and transcriptions of the replies will be returned to the senders following each event.
Myths and Promises of the Human Genome Project
April 19, 7:30 p.m.
Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
What is the Human Genome Project and what does it hope to offer science and humanity? How does the media
impact public understanding of the project? An honest examination of the project and how it's being presented to the public.
Identity vs. Identification: Issues of Race, Priva
cy, and Information
April 26, 7:30 p.m.
Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
How can we benefit from our newfound ability to identify and categorize people by studying their biological makeup? What are the hidden-and not so hidden-dangers? An i
n-depth discussion of the possible rewards and potential pitfalls inherent in reducing people to the sum of their parts.
Tough Choices: Assessin
g the Benefits of the Genome
May 17, 7:30 p.m.
Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
What drives research? Who will benefit from our knowledge of the genome? A look into the potentially competing interests of patients, doctors, and academic/b
iotech endeavors.
Scientific Introduction:
David Martin, M.D.
Senior Vice President, Chiron C
orporation
Click here for abstract of lecture
Commentary:
Norman Fost, M.D., M.P.H.
Department of Pediatrics and Director of the Medical Ethics Program, University of Wisconsin
Click here for abstract of lecture
Ann P. Walker, M.A.
Department of Human Genetics, University of California, Irvine
Click here for abstract of lecture
Moderator:
Cynthia Robbins-Roth, Ph.D.
Editor-in-Chief, BioVenture Publishing
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets available through City Box Office and at the door one hour before e
ach program: City Box Office (415) 392-4400. For more information, call the Exploratorium Information Hotline at (415) 353-0423.
Ticket price includes same-day admission to the Exploratorium to view the exhibition Diving Into the Gene Pool, open Apri
l 8-September 4, 1995.
General Admission: $10
Exploratorium Member: $8
Student/Senior: $6.50
Purchase 3-evening series at 20% discount:
General: $24
Exploratorium Member $19.20
Student/Senior: $15.60
For information on
Exploratorium membership please call 415/528-4302 or click here.
The Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
