Banking Our Genes
By Dan Small, Philip Reilly & Jean McEwen
for the Shriver Center for Mental Retardation

Our genes are vast storehouses of information about our physical traits, behavioral characteristics, medical predispositions and psychological tendencies. The study of DNA has opened up exciting new possibilities in forensics and preventive medicine, and resulted in an explosive growth of DNA collection and the storage of DNA information in databanks. Yet, in the absence of effective regulation, there is considerable concern that this information may be misused. This documentary invites viewers to think about the ethical, public policy and privacy issues involved and about how, or indeed if, this new technology can be used responsibly.

33 minutes
© 1995
Purchase $149 VHS
Order No. QA-155
ISBN (VHS) 1-57295-155-9

Reviews
"An excellent overview of the issues facing us in the new genetic era." Best Science Videos, Science Books and Films

Awards & Conference Screenings
Best in Category, Intl. Health & Medical Film Festival
National Health Information Awards

Related Films
Tracked Down by Our Genes: Explores the new possibilities and dangers created by the Human Genome Project's decoding of human DNA.

Measuring Up: Should prenatal genetic testing determine who is to be born? Families who have had children with serious genetic conditions discuss their own choices, with commentary by several bioethicists and genetic scientists.

DNA and Cystic Fibrosis: The stories of two teens with Cystic Fibrosis make the point that many of the medical breakthroughs seemingly promised by genetic science have yet to be achieved.

The Burden of Knowledge: Seven couples, healthcare and genetic specialists, and others explore the ethical and emotional implications of prenatal testing for genetic defects.

Deadly Inheritance: Examines the social and emotional issues involved in genetic testing, as it follows one family during their months-long wait for the results of the mother's test for Huntington's disease.

To rent or purchase this film, please visit the Icarus Films website

HOME  ||  TITLE INDEX  ||  SUBJECT AREAS  ||  RESOURCES  ||  RETURN TO TOP
CONTACT FANLIGHT  ||  FAQ