Genetics is defined as "the science of inheritance"
and concerns the ways in which characteristics are
passed from parents to their offspring. This area
of study can be applied to all lifeforms, and is
important for understanding some medical disorders,
as well as in other disciplines such as zoology,
botany and ecology.
Human Genetics and Medical Genetics are large areas
of study and research.
These provide scientists with increasing knowledge
of the circumstances in which particular conditions
are most likely to occur. This enables tests to
be made available to those who might be affected
by known genetic conditions, and to those people
whose children might be affected - in which case
screening during pregnancy may also be available.
Genetics is one of the most controversial areas
of modern science.
More about Genetics:
There are many more controversial aspects of genetics
generally - not just human genetics. For example,
other controversies include the debate about the
possible health implications of consuming genetically
modified foods, and the effects of genetic
modification on both the immediate farm environment
and also the wider natural world.
As science continues to advance it is likely that
more and more ethical issues will arise and prompt
debate.
