Modern Nature vs. Nurture: Why the Genetic Lottery and Epigenetics Matter for Social Justice
Author
Baumeyer, Alexis C.
Subject
Washington and Lee University, Shepherd Poverty Program
Nature and nurture
Human genetics
Heredity, Human
Social justice
Metadata
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Capstone; [FULL-TEXT FREELY AVAILABLE ONLINE] Alexis C. Baumeyer is a member of the Class of 2022 of Washington and Lee University. While many are hesitant to lean into the power of genetics to shape our lives, it is an incredibly pervasive part of what makes every human being the ways they are and plays a large role in determining the outcomes of one's life. Though I recognize factors outside of genetic material that determine one's life outcomes, I believe the field of genetics requires more attention from those that seek social equality and justice. The history of our world has taught humans to think of the words "genetics" and "eugenics" together; however, I would consider myself an anti-eugenic, despite my recognition in the power of DNA. We can learn more about this field of study without conforming to racist and classist beliefs previously held by powerful leaders in our world. To be anti-eugenic, but thrive for a better understanding of genetic material requires us to: (1) understand the role that genetic luck plays in shaping our bodies and brains, (2) document how our current educational systems and labor markets and financial markets reward people with certain types of bodies and brains (but not other types of bodies and brains), and (3) reimagine how those systems could be transformed to the inclusion of everyone, regardless of the outcome of the genetic lottery. (Harden) With these steps, we are pushed to continue to learn more, but use this knowledge as a tool to inform the ways in which we take action to demand justice from the institutions that surround us. [From Discussion] Lexi Baumeyer