Genomics, genetics and society

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This publication reflects the key issues discussed at the ‘Genomics, Genetics and Society: Bridging the Disciplinary Divides’ conference held in Toronto in April 2004, which gathered representatives of disciplines involved with genomics, genetics and related fields. Examining the key social, political and philosophical issues associated with applied genetics and genomics, the papers cover four intersecting themes. The introduction of genetic and genomic technologies into communities (e. g., screening programs) and its consequences is followed by a discussion on governance and policy making, examining the definition of expert knowledge. The second half of this special issue focuses on the postgenomic understanding of genes and its translation to the public as well as on the public understanding of and trust in scientific knowledge. Urging for improved dialogue between the public and scientists, this publication is of special interest to clinical geneticists, basic scientists in genomics, policy makers, sociologists, anthropologists and bioethicists.