This volume explores how epigenetic science reshapes notions of moral responsibility, moving the debate beyond individual choice to consider collective and intergenerational dimensions. Drawing on contributions from philosophy, bioethics, and social theory, the essays examine how environmental, social, and technological factors influence gene expression and our ethical obligations. Key themes include forward-looking collective responsibility, the non-identity problem, parenthood, AI’s role in epigenetics, and the egalitarian implications of epigenetic harm. By engaging theoretical and practical perspectives, the book offers a comprehensive framework for understanding responsibility in an era where biology and environment are deeply intertwined.
Overview of the Book
「Epigenetics and Responsibility: Ethical Perspectives」 is a peer-reviewed essay collection published by Bristol University Press in February 2024. The volume spans 152 pages and is available in hardback (ISBN 978-1529225426) and open-access digital formats under a CC-BY-NC-ND licence. It redefines moral responsibility in light of epigenetic research, which shows how environmental factors can cause heritable changes in gene expression without altering DNA sequences.
Editors and Contributing Scholars 👥
「Emma Moormann」 (Editor): Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Antwerp, specializing in the ethics of epigenetic research.
「Anna Smajdor」 (Editor): Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oslo, known for work on the non-identity problem and bioethical theory.
「Daniela Cutas」 (Editor): Associate Professor of Medical Ethics at Lund University, focusing on social justice in healthcare and genetics.
Additional contributors include leading scholars such as Kristien Hens, Maria Hedlund, and Luca Chiapperino, who bring expertise in developmental biology, AI ethics, and collective agency.
Central Themes and Ethical Perspectives 💡
From Individual to Collective Responsibility
The book foregrounds a 「forward-looking collective responsibility」: as epigenetic markers reflect cumulative environmental exposures, societies bear obligations to mitigate harms that transcend individual lifetimes. Essays in this section challenge the narrow view that responsibility lies solely with individuals making “lifestyle choices.”
Luck and Egalitarian Justice
By examining 「luck-egalitarian」 frameworks, contributors argue that epigenetic inequalities—rooted in socioeconomic disparities—undermine meritocratic ideals. This analysis prompts reevaluation of justice in healthcare and public policy, urging support for vulnerable populations whose epigenomes bear the imprint of disadvantage.
The Non-Identity Problem and Harm
Anna Smajdor’s chapter on 「non-identity」 scrutinizes whether epigenetic harm can be morally ascribed when future individuals would not exist without certain environmental exposures. This philosophical puzzle raises questions about our responsibilities to future generations and the ethics of intervention.
Parenthood and Intergenerational Ethics
Daniela Cutas explores 「parental responsibility」, considering how pre- and perinatal environments shape epigenetic outcomes in children. The discussion navigates between respecting parental autonomy and protecting child welfare, proposing nuanced ethical guidelines for reproductive health policies.
AI and Epigenetic Responsibility
The book concludes with an innovative look at 「AI’s role」 in epigenetic research and responsibility. Maria Hedlund’s essay interrogates how machine learning tools can both advance understanding of gene–environment interactions and introduce ethical risks, such as algorithmic bias in predicting health outcomes.
Key Chapters and Insights 📖
「Introduction (Moormann & Hens)」 – Sets the stage by outlining a developmental outlook on life, where epigenomes are dynamic and ethically significant.
「Epigenetics and Forward-Looking Collective Responsibility」 – Articulates a shift toward shared societal duties in preventing epigenetic harm.
「Luck, Epigenetics and the Worth of Collectives」 – Connects luck egalitarianism to collective moral stature.
「Pictures at an Exhibition: Harm & Non-Identity (Smajdor)」 – Examines philosophical puzzles of harm across generations.
「Epigenetics, Parenthood and Responsibility for Children (Cutas)」 – Discusses parental ethical obligations in epigenetic contexts.
「AI and Epigenetic Responsibility (Hedlund)」 – Evaluates the promises and perils of AI in ethical genomics.
Intended Audience and Applications 🎯
This volume is essential reading for:
「Graduate students」 in bioethics, philosophy of science, and public health interested in cutting-edge debates on genetics and responsibility.
「Researchers」 exploring the ethical implications of gene–environment interactions, social determinants of health, and AI in genomics.
「Policymakers」 seeking normative frameworks to guide regulation of environmental exposures and epigenetic data usage.
Why This Book Matters 🌍
By bridging empirical findings in epigenetics with robust ethical theory, this collection offers a 「holistic approach」 to responsibility that accounts for both individual agency and structural conditions. It urges scholars and practitioners to adopt a forward-looking lens, recognizing how our choices—and collective policies—can imprint on future generations at the molecular level. The accessible yet scholarly style makes complex ideas approachable without sacrificing rigor.
In an era where health disparities and environmental crises loom large, 「Epigenetics and Responsibility」 equips readers with the conceptual tools to navigate moral challenges at the crossroads of biology, technology, and society. 🤔💭
Comments
Post a Comment