Transformation of the Concept of the Family in the Wake of Genomic Sequencing: An Islamic Perspective

Abstract

The twentieth century witnessed many life-changing scientific and technological achievements that touch almost all aspects of human life both at the individual and collective levels.2 One of the most fascinating and impactful discoveries has been the identification of the human genetic structure in the form of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Subsequent efforts aimed to decipher the entire human genetic makeup, which was successfully achieved with the completion of the Human Genome Project. The human DNA has become the main marker of personal identity, if not even destiny, with its ability to reveal important information about one’s current as well as future health conditions. Consequently, it has opened up a new chapter in the history of medicine with the introduction of personalized medicine, which aims to evaluate individuals’ healthcare needs on the basis of their genetic structures. It has also acquired a metaphysical status with its comparison with the soul and its identification as the locus of human personhood, although unlike a soul it has a physical existence (Chadwick 2006, 256). On the other hand, the availability of this genetic information has raised serious ethical, legal and social questions that concern not only the individuals whose DNA is being examined but also their families. Increasingly physicians and life scientists are trying to come to terms with the fact that having a genetic condition (disease or mutation) is a family experience, rather than an individual one. To what extent then does this new medical and scientific state