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Analysing bio-art’s epistemic landscape: from metaphoric to post-metaphoric structure. BIOSOCIETIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1057/s41292-022-00270-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSince its emergence, bio-art has developed numerous metaphors central to the transfer of concepts of modern biology, genetics, and genomics to the public domain that reveal several cultural, ethical, and social variations in their related themes. This article assumes that a general typology of metaphors developed by practices related to bio-art can be categorised into two categories: pictorial and operational metaphors. Through these, information regarding several biological issues is transferred to the public arena. Based on the analysis, this article attempts to answer the following questions: How does bio-art develop metaphors to advance epistemic and discursive agendas that constitute public understanding of a set of deeply problematic assumptions regarding how today’s biology operates? Under the influence of today’s synthetic biology, could bio-media operationally reframe these epistemic agendas by reframing complex and multi-layered metaphors towards post-metaphoric structures? Finally, what are the scientific, cultural, and social implications of reframing?
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2
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Nerlich B, Stelmach A. Gene drive communication: exploring experts' lived experience of metaphor use. NEW GENETICS AND SOCIETY 2022; 41:3-22. [PMID: 35722062 PMCID: PMC9197202 DOI: 10.1080/14636778.2021.2020633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Metaphors have been crucial in making genetics and genomics public, from the code and the book of life to genetic scissors and gene surgery. A new field is emerging called "gene drive" - a range of controversial technologies that can potentially be used for the eradication or conservation of animal species. At the same time, metaphors are emerging to talk about the promises and dangers of "gene drive". In this article we use thematic analysis to examine thirty interviews with gene drive science and communication experts, and stakeholders, focusing on how they talk about their lived experience of metaphor use in the context of gene drive communication, including their struggle to remember salient metaphors and their reflections on which metaphors to use and which to avoid. We discuss the significance of our findings for research and practice of responsible science communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Nerlich
- School of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, UK
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3
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Sexton A, James PA. Metaphors and why these are important in all aspects of genetic counseling. J Genet Couns 2021; 31:34-40. [PMID: 34233383 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Metaphors appear simple but are fundamental schemata allowing expression and processing of complex emotions and information. They are so embedded in language and thinking that we are often unaware of their impact, despite the crucial role of metaphors in communication, learning and creating meaning from experiences. A deeper understanding of how to recognize and work with client-generated and counselor-generated metaphors has great potential as an addition to the genetic counseling 'tool-box'. Here, we draw on studies from related health and psychotherapy fields to discuss how working purposefully with metaphors may offer a powerful way to enhance communication within a reciprocally engaged client-counselor relationship. Metaphors present ways to explain complex genetic concepts in a personally meaningful form, to gain a deeper understanding of client's experiences and emotions, to assist processing of experiences, emotions, and concepts, and to assist client and counselor to access and reflect on subconscious emotions, self-concept, and motivations. In addition, working with metaphors has been shown to facilitate coping and action. This paper sets the scene for why and how genetic counselors can utilize client-generated and counselor-generated metaphors purposefully in all areas of practice, including enhancing the therapeutic interaction with clients, as well as in supervision, training, cultural competence, and shaping of societal attitudes toward genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne Sexton
- Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul A James
- Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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4
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Pickersgill M. Negotiating Novelty: Constructing the Novel within Scientific Accounts of Epigenetics. SOCIOLOGY 2021; 55:600-618. [PMID: 34163091 PMCID: PMC8188992 DOI: 10.1177/0038038520954752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is regarded by many as a compelling domain of biomedicine. The purported novelty of epigenetics has begun to have various societal ramifications, particularly in relation to processes of responsibilisation. Within sociology, it has stimulated hopeful debate about conceptual rapprochements between the biomedical and social sciences. This article is concerned with how novelty is socially produced and negotiated. The article engages directly with scientists' talk and writings about epigenetics (as process and field of study). I aim to advance an explicitly sociological analysis about the novelty of epigenetics that underscores its social production rather than an account which participates in its reification. I attend to definitional skirmishes, comparisons with genetics, excitement and intrigue, and considerations of the ethical dimensions of epigenetics. Any assertions that epigenetics is exciting or important should not inadvertently elide reflexive consideration of how such characterisations might be part of the machinery by which they become real.
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5
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Le Goff A, Allard P, Landecker H. Heritable changeability: Epimutation and the legacy of negative definition in epigenetic concepts. STUDIES IN HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE 2021; 86:35-46. [PMID: 33965662 DOI: 10.1016/j.shpsa.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic concepts are fundamentally shaped by a legacy of negative definition, often understood by what they are not. Yet the function and implication of negative definition for scientific discourse has thus far received scant attention. Using the term epimutation as exemplar, we analyze the paradoxical like-but-unlike structure of a term that must simultaneously connect with but depart from genetic concepts. We assess the historical forces structuring the use of epimutation and like terms such as paramutation. This analysis highlights the positive characteristics defining epimutation: the regularity, oxymoronic temporality, and materiality of stable processes. Integrating historical work, ethnographic observation, and insights from philosophical practice-oriented conceptual analysis, we detail the distinctive epistemic goals the epimutation concept fulfils in medicine, plant biology and toxicology. Epimutation and allied epigenetic terms have succeeded by being mutation-like and recognizable, yet have failed to consolidate for exactly the same reason: they are tied simultaneously by likeness and opposition to nouns that describe things that are assumed to persist unchanged over space and time. Moreover, negative definition casts the genetic-epigenetic relationship as an either/or binary, overshadowing continuities and connections. This analysis is intended to assist practitioners and observers of genetics and epigenetics in recognizing and moving beyond the conceptual legacies of negative definition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Le Goff
- The Institute for Society and Genetics & the EpiCenter, University of California, UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics, 621 Charles E. Young Dr., South Box 957221, 3360 LSB, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Patrick Allard
- The Institute for Society and Genetics & the EpiCenter, University of California, UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics, 621 Charles E. Young Dr., South Box 957221, 3360 LSB, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Hannah Landecker
- Department of Sociology, The Institute for Society and Genetics & the EpiCenter, University of California, UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics, 621 Charles E. Young Dr, South Box 957221, 3360 LSB, Los Angeles, USA.
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6
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Dyke SOM, Ennis CA, Joly Y, Walter J, Siebert R, Pastinen T. Communicating science: epigenetics in the spotlight. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2020; 6:dvaa015. [PMID: 33240528 PMCID: PMC7673471 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvaa015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Given the public interest in epigenetic science, this study aimed to better understand media representations of epigenetics in national newspaper coverage in various regions in North America, Europe, and Asia. Content analysis was used to study media messages about epigenetics, their policy focus, and the balance of the reporting. We identified several recurring themes in the news reports, including policy messages relating to individual and societal responsibilities. We also found shortcomings in the media's portrayal of epigenetic science, and sought to identify potential causes by considering the underlying scientific evidence that the media reported on. A case study analysis showed that the results of epigenetic studies were often overstated in academic research publications due to common experimental limitations. We suggest that defining standardized criteria with which to evaluate epigenetic studies could help to overcome some of the challenges inherent in translating complex epigenetic research findings for non-technical audiences, and present a Press Kit template that researchers can adapt and use to aid in the development of accurate and balanced press releases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie O M Dyke
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal (Quebec), H3A 0G1, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Correspondence address. E-mail:
| | - Catherine A Ennis
- Human Early Learning Partnership, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Amphoraxe Life Sciences, Inc., Vancouver, BC, V6L 3C9, Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal (Quebec), H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Jörn Walter
- Saarland University, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Reiner Siebert
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 29, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tomi Pastinen
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre, Montreal (Quebec), H3A 0G1, Canada
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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7
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Plasticity of the neural coding metaphor: An unnoticed rhetoric in scientific discourse. Behav Brain Sci 2019; 42:e225. [PMID: 31775922 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x1900133x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The convincing argument that Brette makes for the neural coding metaphor as imposing one view of brain behavior can be further explained through discourse analysis. Instead of a unified view, we argue, the coding metaphor's plasticity, versatility, and robustness throughout time explain its success and conventionalization to the point that its rhetoric became overlooked.
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Diniz E, Bernardes SF, Castro P. Self- and Other-Dehumanization Processes in Health-Related Contexts: A Critical Review of the Literature. REVIEW OF GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1089268019880889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Dehumanization is an everyday, pervasive phenomenon in health contexts. Given its detrimental consequences to health care, much research has been dedicated to understanding and promoting the humanization of health services. However, health care service research has neglected the sociopsychological processes involved in the dehumanization of self and others, in formal but also informal health-related contexts. Drawing upon sociopsychological models of dehumanization, this article will bridge this gap by presenting a critical review of studies on everyday meaning-making and person perception processes of dehumanization in health-related contexts. A database search was conducted in PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed, using a combination of keywords on dehumanization and health/illness/body; 3,229 references were screened; 95 full texts were assessed for eligibility; 59 studies were included. Most studies focused on informal contexts, reflecting a decontextualized and one-sided view of dehumanization (i.e., not integrating actors’ and victims’ perspectives). Despite the dominant focus on self-dehumanization, emerging perspectives uncover the role of processes that deny human uniqueness to others, and their individual determinants and consequences for mental health. A few studies bring to light the functions of a variety of dehumanizing body metaphors on self- and other-dehumanization. These trends in the literature leave several gaps, which are here critically analyzed to inform future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Diniz
- ISCTE-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Centro de Investigação e Intervenção Social (CIS-IUL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia F. Bernardes
- ISCTE-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Centro de Investigação e Intervenção Social (CIS-IUL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Castro
- ISCTE-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Centro de Investigação e Intervenção Social (CIS-IUL), Lisbon, Portugal
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9
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Dupras C, Saulnier KM, Joly Y. Epigenetics, ethics, law and society: A multidisciplinary review of descriptive, instrumental, dialectical and reflexive analyses. SOCIAL STUDIES OF SCIENCE 2019; 49:785-810. [PMID: 31366289 PMCID: PMC6801799 DOI: 10.1177/0306312719866007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics, defined as 'the study of mitotically and/or meiotically heritable changes in gene function that cannot be explained by changes in DNA sequence', has emerged as a promissory yet controversial field of scientific inquiry over the past decade. Scholars from many disciplines have formulated both optimistic and cautionary claims regarding its potential normative implications. This article provides a comprehensive review of the nascent literature at the crossroads of epigenetics, ethics, law and society. It describes nine emerging areas of discussion, relating to (1) the impact of epigenetics on the nature versus nurture dualism, (2) the potential resulting biologization of the social, (3) the meaning of epigenetics for public health, its potential influence on (4) reproduction and parenting, (5) political theory and (6) legal proceedings, and concerns regarding (7) stigmatization and discrimination, (8) privacy protection and (9) knowledge translation. While there is some degree of similarity between the nature and content of these areas and the abundant literature on ethical, legal and social issues in genetics, the potential implications of epigenetics ought not be conflated with the latter. Critical studies on epigenetics are emerging within a separate space of bioethical and biopolitical investigations and claims, with scholars from various epistemological standpoints utilizing distinct yet complementary analytical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Dupras
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University
and Génome Québec Innovation Centre, Canada
| | - Katie Michelle Saulnier
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University
and Génome Québec Innovation Centre, Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University
and Génome Québec Innovation Centre, Canada
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10
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Dubois M, Louvel S, Le Goff A, Guaspare C, Allard P. Epigenetics in the public sphere: interdisciplinary perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2019; 5:dvz019. [PMID: 31660206 PMCID: PMC6812041 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvz019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high public interest in epigenetics, few scholars have empirically investigated the forms, reasons and consequences of the public circulation of epigenetics. Using an original database focusing on 'lifestyle' or 'everyday' epigenetics, this article aims to promote an open-minded and interdisciplinary dialogue between the public appropriation of epigenetics and the current scientific state of the art. It raises three main questions: Are there any specific modes of circulation of epigenetics in the general public? Why does epigenetics seem so appealing to the public? Within the public repertoire of epigenetics, is it possible to identify some specific knowledge claims and, if so, given the current state of the art, what is their degree of accuracy? The article argues that the social diffusion of epigenetics frequently carries on beliefs and misconceptions about genetics and epigenetics. The social life of epigenetics fuels a collective 'illusion' of control and empowerment on the basis of which new markets expand. More unexpectedly, this article underlines the emergence of a new scientific culture, i.e. the 'scientifization' of the cultural appropriation of epigenetics. Our analysis can inform the scientific community about the current and evolving state of the public representation of epigenetics and help it frame outreach activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Dubois
- Epigenetics, Data, Politics (EpiDaPo), CNRS, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Groupe d'Étude des Méthodes de l'Analyse Sociologique de la Sorbonne (GEMASS), CNRS, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Séverine Louvel
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Sciences Po Grenoble, PACTE, Grenoble, France
| | - Anne Le Goff
- Institute for Society and Genetics (ISG), University of Califonia Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- EpiCenter on Epigenetics, Reproduction, and Society, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Guaspare
- Epigenetics, Data, Politics (EpiDaPo), CNRS, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Groupe d'Étude des Méthodes de l'Analyse Sociologique de la Sorbonne (GEMASS), CNRS, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Allard
- Institute for Society and Genetics (ISG), University of Califonia Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- EpiCenter on Epigenetics, Reproduction, and Society, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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Buta B, Leder D, Miller R, Schoenborn NL, Green AR, Varadhan R. The Use of Figurative Language to Describe Frailty in Older Adults. J Frailty Aging 2019; 7:127-133. [PMID: 29741198 DOI: 10.14283/jfa.2018.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Frailty affects 15% of non-institutionalized older adults in the United States, yet confusion remains in defining and, in turn, assessing frailty. Figurative language, such as metaphor, can help to explain difficult scientific concepts and to form new theories. We aimed to examine the use of figurative language to describe frailty and to identify themes in the way figurative expressions are used. Understanding how frailty is described figuratively may offer insights for developing useful communication approaches in research settings. METHODS We performed a comprehensive review of editorials in the scientific literature to explore figurative language used to describe frailty in older adults. We categorized themes among the figurative expressions, which may help to inform how to effectively communicate about frailty. RESULTS We found 24 editorials containing 32 figurative expressions. The figurative expressions conceptualized frailty in six ways: 1) a complex, multifaceted concept; 2) an important issue in health and medicine; 3) indicative of something that is failing or faulty; 4) indicative of fragility; 5) representative of vulnerable, ignored persons; and 6) an opportunity for self-awareness and reflection. DISCUSSION Our review highlights the heterogeneity in depictions of frailty, which is consonant with the lack of a standardized definition of frailty. We also found a novel aspect to the concept of frailty, which merits attention: frailty characterized as an opportunity for self-awareness and reflection. Figurative language, which often juxtaposes familiar with challenging, complex concepts, can offer insights on issues in frailty research and holds potential as a tool for researchers to improve communication about this important and debated medical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Buta
- Brian Buta, MHS, 2024 E. Monument St., Suite 2-700, Baltimore, Maryland. Phone: 410-502-3412.
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Wood AC. Gene-Environment Interplay in Child Eating Behaviors: What the Role of "Nature" Means for the Effects of "Nurture". Curr Nutr Rep 2018; 7:294-302. [PMID: 30374755 PMCID: PMC6251706 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-018-0254-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This narrative review describes the evidence for both genetic and environmental influences on child appetitive traits and suggests ways of thinking about how these interact and correlate to influence how a child eats. RECENT FINDINGS Emerging evidence from social network analysis, and from longitudinal studies questioning the direction of association between parent feeding behaviors and child obesity risk, suggest that children's genes may shape the environmental risk for obesity that they are exposed to. There is strong evidence that child appetitive traits are both heritable and shaped by the environment. Instead of thinking about how genetic and environmental factors operate independently on each appetitive trait, research needs to expand the current paradigm to examine how genes and environments interact and shape each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis C Wood
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1100 Bates Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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14
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Szymanski EA. Who are the users of synthetic DNA? Using metaphors to activate microorganisms at the center of synthetic biology. LIFE SCIENCES, SOCIETY AND POLICY 2018; 14:15. [PMID: 30006902 PMCID: PMC6045561 DOI: 10.1186/s40504-018-0080-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology, a multidisciplinary field involving designing and building with DNA, often designs and builds in microorganisms. The role of these microorganisms tends to be understood through metaphors making the microbial cell like a machine and emphasizing its passivity: cells are described as platforms, chassis, and computers. Here, I point to the efficacy of such metaphors in enacting the microorganism as a particular kind of (non-)participant in the research process, and I suggest the utility of employing metaphors that make microorganisms a different kind of thing-active participants, contributors, and even collaborators in scientific research. This suggestion is worth making, I argue, because enabling the activity of the microorganism generates opportunities for learning from microorganisms in ways that may help explain currently unexplained phenomena in synthetic biology and suggest new experimental directions. Moreover, "activating the microorganism" reorients relationships between human scientists and nonhuman experimental participants away from control over nonhuman creatures and toward respect for and listening to them, generating conditions of possibility for exploring what responsible research means when humans try to be responsible toward and even with creatures across species boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Amethyst Szymanski
- Science, Technology, and Innovation Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Chisholm House, High School Yards, Edinburgh, EH1 1LZ, UK.
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15
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Middleton A, Niemiec E, Prainsack B, Bobe J, Farley L, Steed C, Smith J, Bevan P, Bonhomme N, Kleiderman E, Thorogood A, Schickhardt C, Garattini C, Vears D, Littler K, Banner N, Scott E, Kovalevskaya NV, Levin E, Morley KI, Howard HC. 'Your DNA, Your Say': global survey gathering attitudes toward genomics: design, delivery and methods. Per Med 2018; 15:311-318. [PMID: 29856292 DOI: 10.2217/pme-2018-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Our international study, 'Your DNA, Your Say', uses film and an online cross-sectional survey to gather public attitudes toward the donation, access and sharing of DNA information. We describe the methodological approach used to create an engaging and bespoke survey, suitable for translation into many different languages. We address some of the particular challenges in designing a survey on the subject of genomics. In order to understand the significance of a genomic result, researchers and clinicians alike use external databases containing DNA and medical information from thousands of people. We ask how publics would like their 'anonymous' data to be used (or not to be used) and whether they are concerned by the potential risks of reidentification; the results will be used to inform policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Middleton
- Society & Ethics Research, Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Emilia Niemiec
- Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Barbara Prainsack
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jason Bobe
- Department of Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY 10029, USA
| | - Lauren Farley
- Society & Ethics Research, Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Claire Steed
- Web Team, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - James Smith
- Web Team, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Paul Bevan
- Web Team, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Natasha Bonhomme
- Expecting Health, Genetic Alliance, Washington, DC 20008-2369, USA
| | - Erika Kleiderman
- Centre of Genomics & Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adrian Thorogood
- Centre of Genomics & Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christoph Schickhardt
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Danya Vears
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, Centre for Biomedical Ethics & Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Erick Scott
- Department of Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY 10029, USA
| | | | - Elissa Levin
- Policy & Clinical Affairs, Helix OpCo LLC, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Katherine I Morley
- Society & Ethics Research, Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK.,National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,Centre for Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Global & Population Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Heidi C Howard
- Society & Ethics Research, Connecting Science, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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16
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Müller R, Hanson C, Hanson M, Penkler M, Samaras G, Chiapperino L, Dupré J, Kenney M, Kuzawa C, Latimer J, Lloyd S, Lunkes A, Macdonald M, Meloni M, Nerlich B, Panese F, Pickersgill M, Richardson S, Rüegg J, Schmitz S, Stelmach A, Villa PI. The biosocial genome? Interdisciplinary perspectives on environmental epigenetics, health and society. EMBO Rep 2017; 18:1677-1682. [PMID: 28931580 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201744953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Müller
- Munich Center for Technology in Society (MCTS) and School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Clare Hanson
- Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mark Hanson
- Institute of Developmental Sciences and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Penkler
- Munich Center for Technology in Society (MCTS) and School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georgia Samaras
- Munich Center for Technology in Society (MCTS) and School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Luca Chiapperino
- Sciences and Technologies Studies Laboratory, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - John Dupré
- Centre for the Study of Life Sciences (Egenis) and Department of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Martha Kenney
- Women and Gender Studies, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, USA
| | - Christopher Kuzawa
- Department of Anthropology and Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, USA
| | | | - Stephanie Lloyd
- Department of Anthropology, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Molly Macdonald
- School of English and Drama, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Maurizio Meloni
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Brigitte Nerlich
- School of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Francesco Panese
- Sciences and Technologies Studies Laboratory, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martyn Pickersgill
- Usher Institute for Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah Richardson
- Department of the History of Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, USA
| | - Joëlle Rüegg
- Unit of Toxicology Sciences and Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Swetox Södertälje, Sweden
| | - Sigrid Schmitz
- Department of History, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Aleksandra Stelmach
- School of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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McLeod C, Nerlich B. Synthetic biology, metaphors and responsibility. LIFE SCIENCES, SOCIETY AND POLICY 2017; 13:13. [PMID: 28849542 PMCID: PMC5573707 DOI: 10.1186/s40504-017-0061-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Metaphors are not just decorative rhetorical devices that make speech pretty. They are fundamental tools for thinking about the world and acting on the world. The language we use to make a better world matters; words matter; metaphors matter. Words have consequences - ethical, social and legal ones, as well as political and economic ones. They need to be used 'responsibly'. They also need to be studied carefully - this is what we want to do through this editorial and the related thematic collection. In the context of synthetic biology, natural and social scientists have become increasingly interested in metaphors, a wave of interest that we want to exploit and amplify. We want to build on emerging articles and books on synthetic biology, metaphors of life and the ethical and moral implications of such metaphors. This editorial provides a brief introduction to synthetic biology and responsible innovation, as well as a comprehensive review of literature on the social, cultural and ethical impacts of metaphor use in genomics and synthetic biology. Our aim is to stimulate an interdisciplinary and international discussion on the impact that metaphors can have on science, policy and publics in the context of synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen McLeod
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, UK.
| | - Brigitte Nerlich
- School of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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18
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DUPRAS CHARLES. RAPPROCHEMENT DES PÔLES NATURE ET CULTURE PAR LA RECHERCHE EN ÉPIGÉNÉTIQUE : DISSECTION D’UN BOULEVERSEMENT ÉPISTÉMOLOGIQUE ATTENDU. ATELIERS DE L ETHIQUE-THE ETHICS FORUM 2017. [DOI: 10.7202/1051278ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Winett LB, Wulf AB, Wallack L. Framing Strategies to Avoid Mother-Blame in Communicating the Origins of Chronic Disease. Am J Public Health 2016; 106:1369-73. [PMID: 27310351 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2016.303239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Evolving research in epigenetics and the developmental origins of health and disease offers tremendous promise in explaining how the social environment, place, and resources available to us have enduring effects on our health. Troubling from a communications perspective, however, is the tendency in framing the science to hold mothers almost uniquely culpable for their offspring's later disease risk. The purpose of this article is to add to the conversation about avoiding this unintended outcome by (1) discussing the importance of cognitive processing and issue frames, (2) describing framing challenges associated with communicating about developmental origins of health and disease and offering principles to address them, and (3) providing examples of conceptual metaphors that may be helpful in telling this complex and contextual story for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana B Winett
- Liana B. Winett and Lawrence Wallack are with the School of Community Health, Portland State University, Portland, OR. Alyssa B. Wulf is with Real Reason, Oakland, CA
| | - Alyssa B Wulf
- Liana B. Winett and Lawrence Wallack are with the School of Community Health, Portland State University, Portland, OR. Alyssa B. Wulf is with Real Reason, Oakland, CA
| | - Lawrence Wallack
- Liana B. Winett and Lawrence Wallack are with the School of Community Health, Portland State University, Portland, OR. Alyssa B. Wulf is with Real Reason, Oakland, CA
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Holmes C, Carlson SM, McDonald F, Jones M, Graham J. Exploring the post-genomic world: differing explanatory and manipulatory functions of post-genomic sciences. NEW GENETICS AND SOCIETY 2016; 35:49-68. [PMID: 27134568 PMCID: PMC4841027 DOI: 10.1080/14636778.2015.1133280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Richard Lewontin proposed that the ability of a scientific field to create a narrative for public understanding garners it social relevance. This article applies Lewontin's conceptual framework of the functions of science (manipulatory and explanatory) to compare and explain the current differences in perceived societal relevance of genetics/genomics and proteomics. We provide three examples to illustrate the social relevance and strong cultural narrative of genetics/genomics for which no counterpart exists for proteomics. We argue that the major difference between genetics/genomics and proteomics is that genomics has a strong explanatory function, due to the strong cultural narrative of heredity. Based on qualitative interviews and observations of proteomics conferences, we suggest that the nature of proteins, lack of public understanding, and theoretical complexity exacerbates this difference for proteomics. Lewontin's framework suggests that social scientists may find that omics sciences affect social relations in different ways than past analyses of genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Holmes
- Technoscience and Regulation Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Siobhan M. Carlson
- Interdisciplinary Studies, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Fiona McDonald
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mavis Jones
- Technoscience and Regulation Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Janice Graham
- Technoscience and Regulation Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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21
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Nelson SC, Yu JH, Ceccarelli L. How Metaphors About the Genome Constrain CRISPR Metaphors: Separating the "Text" From Its "Editor". THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2015; 15:60-62. [PMID: 26632368 PMCID: PMC4790449 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2015.1103815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - J-H Yu
- a University of Washington
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