Nature Versus Nurture

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For decades, the scientific community has been asking itself whether our genetic makeup, or the environments in which we are raised influence who we become in life. Some researchers think the genes we inherit from our parents guide our development. Others, however, think our environment has a stronger role in shaping who we eventually become. Of course, many believe that both environment and genetics play a strong... Read more >

Key Debates

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The nature versus nurture debate has been raging for decades, with researchers arguing about the roles genetics and the environment play in human development.   Most researchers agree that many aspects of our personalities are influenced by a combination of genetics (nature) and our outside environment (nurture). However, there are some nature versus nurture issues that are hotly debated in the scientific... Read more >

Genetic Testing

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Genetic testing refers to tests that are done on blood and other body tissues to find genetic diseases or defects. Over 900 genetic tests are currently in existence and can be performed for a variety of purposes.   Genetic tests can be done on adults, children and even unborn babies. They can determine whether a baby will be born with a genetic disorder. In adults, they can determine whether a genetic... Read more >

Researching Ancestry

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DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a molecule that contains all of the genetic information necessary for producing an individual, including the hair, the heart, eyes, etc. All of the body's cells carry DNA, and every human being has a distinct DNA structure. An individual inherits his unique DNA structure from his parents. As a result, DNA testing can confirm whether or not two people are related, helping some... Read more >

Family Health History

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Knowing your family health history is an important part of being able to maintain your health. For example, understanding what types of diseases other members of your family have suffered from can help you learn which conditions you are more at risk of developing during your lifetime.   Some health problems you may disposed to due to your family health history include: Alzheimer's disease cancers... Read more >

Twins Studies

twin and adoption studies twins

Nature vs. Nurture: Twin and Adoption Studies In the nature versus nurture debate, researchers often turn to twin and adoption studies to measure the influence of genetics and environment on individuals. By studying twins who were raised both apart and in the same household and by looking at individuals who were adopted, scientists can gain better insight into the nature vs. nurture... Read more >

Gene Interaction

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While many people have been taught to believe that either genes or the environment and environmental factors determine a person's individual traits and predisposition to diseases and disorders, science is now showing that both of these factors influence an individual's makeup. This is referred to as gene environment interaction.   Gene environment interaction is especially important for the development of... Read more >

Biological Determinism

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What is biological determinism? Biological determinism, also known as genetic determinism, is a theory that our genes and genetic makeup determine every aspect of our being and of our personality.   Most people believe that a person's environment, social factors and other factors from the environment influence a person's likes, dislikes and other preferences. However, those who advocate biological... Read more >

Human Genome

decoding the human genome dna strand

The human genome refers to the all of the genetic information contained in human DNA. So decoding the human genome describes the process of mapping out each piece of this genetic information in order to create a blueprint of a human's genes.   By having a precise diagram of the basic elements that make up a human, researchers can work on identifying the source of and finding cures for a number of diseases... Read more >