The Ghost in Our Genes: Legal and Ethical Implications of Epigenetics

63 Pages Posted: 4 Jun 2008 Last revised: 17 Feb 2014

See all articles by Mark A. Rothstein

Mark A. Rothstein

U of Louisville

Yu Cai

Arizona State University

Gary E. Marchant

Arizona State University - College of Law

Date Written: February 3, 2009

Abstract

Epigenetics is one of the most scientifically important, and legally and ethically significant, cutting-edge subjects of scientific discovery. Epigenetics link environmental and genetic influences on the traits and characteristics of an individual, and new discoveries reveal that a large range of environmental, dietary, behavioral, and medical experiences can significantly affect the future development and health of an individual and their offspring. This article describes and analyzes the ethical and legal implications of these new scientific findings.

Keywords: Epigenetics, genetic, environmental

JEL Classification: K32, I18

Suggested Citation

Rothstein, Mark A. and Cai, Yu and Marchant, Gary E., The Ghost in Our Genes: Legal and Ethical Implications of Epigenetics (February 3, 2009). Health Matrix: Journal of Law-Medicine, Vol. 19, No. 1, 2009, University of Louisville School of Law Legal Studies Research Paper Series No. 2010-02, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1140443

Mark A. Rothstein

U of Louisville ( email )

3787 Via Vuelta
3787 Via Vuelta
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
United States
15025299381 (Phone)

Yu Cai

Arizona State University ( email )

Farmer Building 440G PO Box 872011
Tempe, AZ 85287
United States

Gary E. Marchant (Contact Author)

Arizona State University - College of Law ( email )

Box 877906
Tempe, AZ 85287-7906
United States
(480) 965-3246 (Phone)
(480) 965-2427 (Fax)

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