Las432 Research Paper(a)

Genetic Fingerprinting

LAS 432: Tech, Society, and Culture

Table of Contents

Abstract ……………………...........................................................................................................3

1. Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………….4

2. The Technology Behind Genetic Fingerprinting ………………………………………………4

2.1. Genetic Fingerprinting Methods ………………………………………………….….6

3. History & Economic Issues ………………………………………………………..…………10

4. Political Causes & Effects …………………….…………………………...…………………16

5. Psychological Considerations & Sociological Effects ……………………………..…………21

5.1. Acceptance through Media …………………………………….…………………...23

5.2. Actual & Possible Controversies ………………………….……….……………….25

5.3. Issues Related to Use of DNA in Criminal Law ………………………..…….....….26

5.4. An Invasion of Privacy & Civil Liberties ……..…………………..………...……...27

6. Cultural Considerations ………………………………………………..……………………..28

7. Artistic Links …………………………………………………..……………………………..29

8. Environmental Effects ………………………………………...……………………………...31

9. Moral & Ethical Considerations ……………………………………………………………...32

10. Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………..……………39

11. References/Bibliography ……………………………………………………….……………40

Abstract

This paper thoroughly discusses every aspect of Genetic Fingerprinting. It explains the pure science that goes into figuring out how scientists identify individual’s through their DNA makeup by using different methods such as Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism, and Short Tandem Repeats. The history will be discussed, including how genetic fingerprinting was discovered, who discovered it, and when it was first used to make the biological connection between mother and child. Economically, genetic fingerprinting has helped our society by connecting family members together, deterring criminals, identifying suspects, and unlocking information on the genetic...