Law and Genetics

Course Overview

This course explores how society developed systems of civil obligation and criminal deterrence, examining what happens to hallowed concepts of privacy, confidentiality, property, and equality when they collide with 21st-century biotechnologies riding the crest of the genetics wave. In the final module, the course examines how traditional property law concepts apply to body parts and genetic innovations, investigating patent law challenges and current controversies around organ trade, cosmetic surgery, and gamete retention. By the end of this course, you will be able to: - Explain how legal principles apply to genetic contexts - Describe the challenges that arise when law meets rapidly advancing genetic technologies - Identify key legal protections for genetic information and privacy - Understand the basic legal principles governing genetic materials and intellectual property The course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.