Are We More Than Our Genes? That’s the spring focus of the Sinai and Synapses Discussion Forum. Each week, we’ll gather some of the most interesting articles on the topic from across the online world. We hope they make you think — and share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
Ian Tattersall: Ernst Mayr’s perspective suggests that we were gradually fine-tuned by natural selection, over the eons, to be the kind of creatures we are. But the diversity of the rapidly expanding hominin fossil record strongly argues otherwise. And if that is the case, we are not condemned by our biology to act in any specific ways. Instead, we are responsible for our own individual behaviors. (The Scientist)
Denis Alexander Discusses Human Embryo Gene Editing
Dr. Denis Alexander talks to Eleanor Puttock about the new technique of human embryo gene editing, the science behind it, it’s implications as well as a theological view point. (University of Cambridge)
Are Our Emotional Reactions Hardwired?
New research may provide an explanation for this observation as scientists have discovered a person’s emotional reactivity may begin in their DNA. (Rick Nauert, PsychCentral)
First Evidence of How Parents’ Lives Could Change Children’s DNA
For the first time, scientists have discovered a mechanism in humans that could explain how your lifestyle choices may impact your children and grandchildren’s genes. Mounting evidence suggests that environmental factors such as smoking, diet and stress, can leave their mark on the genes of your children and grandchildren. (Helen Thomson, New Scientist)
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