Miss Isabelle Ford1
1Monash University, , Australia
Biography:
Bio to come
Abstract:
Epigenetics falls under the umbrella of post-genomic sciences and has gained significant ground over the last decade. Epigenetic research spans a wide scope—from the study of intricate molecular biological processes which assist in the expression of genes, to theorising and investigating patterns of biological inheritance outside of traditional genetic inheritance. The latter end of this scope is the primary focus for ethical examination and concern. In this paper, we critically analyse the emerging trend in the bioethical literature around epigenetic research toward an account of forward-looking collective responsibility (FLCR) following on from Maria Hedlund’s account of ‘epigenetic responsibility’ (2012). Such an approach to responsibility focuses primarily on the collective level (as opposed to individual), and the forward-looking direction (as opposed to the backward-looking). We argue that while the discussion of FLCR is important for conversation around procreative responsibility in post-genomics, further balancing and fine-tuning is required. By defending backward-looking and individual aspects of responsibility worth preserving, we demonstrate the importance of developing a more thorough and well-rounded account of responsibility. An account that is sensitive to our concerns, along with those of the scholars we draw upon, would assist in the ethical application of post-genomic research to practices within the procreative space.