The research funded by the MCG programme has come to an end. To take stock and formulate a strategy for the future, the MCG programme committee asked four experts on the field of ‘genomics & society’ to write an essay on one of four themes: North-South division, transhumanism, bio-based economy and geneticalisation of (mental) disease. The four experts and their essay titles are: The foundation of a biobased economy - Dr André Faaij, Universiteit Utrecht (NL) Mental illness, genomics and society - Dr Ingrid Baart, VU medisch centrum (NL) Transhumanism and human enhancement - Dr Rinie van Est, Rathenau Institute (NL) Genomics and the North-South division - Doreen Shumba-Mnyulwa, Regional Director, RAEIN-AFRICA, University of Namibia Windhoek  The essays focus on the current state of affairs with respect to the interaction between genomics research and societal involvement within each theme. In addition, the essays should also provide starting points for defining future research topics and questions. During the MCG closing conference ‘Reflection & Direction’ on March 11, 2008, the first concept-essays were presented by the authors, followed by a discussion session. Subsequently, the authors have processed the feedback obtained during the conference into the final versions, published on this site. |
