The End of Genetics: Designing Humanity's DNA

Abstract

David B. Goldstein is the John E. Borne Professor of Genetics and Development and director of the Institute for Genomic Medicine at Columbia University Medical Center. In his new book, The End of Genetics: Designing Humanity’s DNA, Goldstein emphasizes the need for more extensive understanding of the underlying sciences of genetics by the general public. Parents will soon be able to decide on the genetic makeup of their children in both large and small ways. These decisions will lead to a new kind of genetics and Goldstein’s goal is to empower non-scientists to be a part of these changes. The book is divided into 5 chapters The Future of Reproduction; Learning to Read the Human Genome; The Nature of Human Genetic Variation; DNA and Human Disease; and Writing the Genomes of Our Children – concluding with notes, a bibliography and index. Goldstein includes a brief history of genetics, thought experiments for the reader, and examples of genome mutations in real individuals. Goldstein is cognizant of his reader – reassuring them as begins a more complex topic that he will be returning to easier to understand information. While he takes the time to define these complex topics and words, the reader does need to have some awareness of scientific language. He also recognizes that some readers may be more familiar with genetics and offers alternative reading suggestions. While much of what is discussed in the book can be considered eugenics, Goldstein is sensitive to the negative connotation and makes the decision to refer to it as reproducted genome design. He points out when he is sharing his personal opinion versus facts – which are well detailed in his notes and bibliography. Genetics research has moved faster than expected and there are gaps in knowledge that make it difficult for scientists to anticipate the consequences of our actions. By empowering non-scientists to understand the underlying science, Goldstein hopes to lead parents to make informed decisions that will impact the future of our species. Goldstein has done a good job making a complicated and potentially overwhelming topic accessible to a broader audience. This book is recommended for all libraries with public health collections.