The Birth of a Genetics Policy

Based on a five-year research project and winner of the Prix 'Le Monde' for academic research in France, The Birth of a Genetics Policy analyses the three dimensions - scientific, political and moral - of the social issues raised by a policy of screening for the genetic disease of cystic fibrosis amongst babies. Drawing on extensive interview material and observational research, it explores the conditions under which a screening policy is decided upon and implemented, the types of political logic underlying it, and the effects it has on norms and values.

JoÃ'lle Vailly is Senior Researcher at the National Institute for Health and Medical Research (Inserm) and at the research center 'Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Social Issues' (Iris), France.

Introduction; Chapter 1 The Birth of a Screening Policy (Brittany-France); Chapter 2 On Scientific Grounds; Chapter 3 Governing; Chapter 4 Extending Abnormality; Chapter 5 Living with the Disease; Chapter 6 Maintaining a Quality Life; Chapter 7 Conclusion;