Gene as a Cultural Icon

Dorothy Nelkin, New York University, New York, USA

Published online: September 2006

DOI: 10.1002/9780470015902.a0005860

The gene has assumed a cultural meaning that is independent of its biological definition – becoming a source of personal identity, a determinant of behavior and personality, and a basis of social stereotypes. This cultural construct of genetic essentialism has serious social policy implications.

Keywords: determinism; genetic essentialism; personhood; media; social policy

 References
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Related Sub-Topics:

Philosophy of the Life Sciences | General Genetics and Disease | General Biochemistry | Science and Society - General
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Article Title: Gene as a Cultural Icon
 
How to Cite close
Nelkin, Dorothy(Sep 2006) Gene as a Cultural Icon. In: eLS. John Wiley & Sons Ltd, Chichester. http://www.els.net [doi: 10.1002/9780470015902.a0005860]