The Human Recipe: Understanding Your Genes in Today's Society

by Pascal Borry (Author), Gert Matthijs (Author)

Human genetics is not the playground of science alone. Genetics concerns all of us, for we all have DNA, genes, genomes, and chromosomes. In fact, our genes determine our appearance and our behaviour. They even define our talents and our health risks.

The authors of The Human Recipe explain clearly and with humour what exactly is understood by human genetics. With anecdotes and topical examples they demonstrate how genetics interferes with our everyday lives. What if a DNA analysis reveals that your biological father is someone else than the person you have been calling dad for years? Why do Africans excel in athletics, Asians in gymnastics, and Europeans mainly in sports testing physical strengths? What is the difference between a genetic disease and a contagious illness?

The newest developments in human genetics also raise ethical questions and provoke actual debates which the authors do not bypass. Why are many people reluctant to the conception of designer babies and less to rescue babies? Is it possible to eliminate cancer? And are preventive surgeries and amputations the most appropriate solutions to do so? What about privacy in DNA research and forensic databases? Can DNA be stolen and is this considered a serious crime?

The Human Recipe is a smart guide to all you want to know about human genetics in our current society