Epigenetics and Responsibility: Ethical Perspectives

People are responsible for their choices, but not for their biological makeup, which reveals connections between genetic make-up and environment. This collection redefines moral responsibility and suggests a shift from individual to collective responsibility, challenging established notions of human nature and the nature/nurture divide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

EPUB and EPDF available Open Access under CC-BY-NC-ND licence.



We often hold individuals accountable for their choices, but not for the uncontrollable factors that shape their lives: their nature, genes, or biological makeup. This thought-provoking collection challenges the traditional boundaries of moral responsibility. It demonstrates how epigenetics reveals the interconnectedness between our genetic makeup and our environment. The essays challenge established notions of human nature and the nature/nurture divide, advocating for a shift in focus from individual to collective responsibility.

By uncovering the links between our genetic makeup, environment, and experiences, this collection makes a significant contribution to ongoing debates on ethics, genetics, and responsibility. It encourages us to reevaluate our understanding of what it means to be responsible and to consider the broader societal implications of our actions and choices.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529225426