The Burden of Knowledge
Moral Dilemmas in Prenatal Testing
By Wendy Conquest, Bob Drake & Deni Elliott

This provocative documentary explores the difficult ethical issues arising from advances in biotechnology that make it possible to identify genetic defects during pregnancy.

Featuring interviews with seven couples who were offered prenatal testing, along with healthcare and genetic specialists and people with disabilities, this video raises important questions about personal responsibility and the changing roles of science, medicine, and technology.

54 minutes
© 1994
Purchase $149.00 DVD
Order No. QA-260

Reviews
"Extremely evenhanded, giving everyone something to ponder, this involving and disquieting documentary is great fodder for discussion of medical ethics and health issues." Irene Wood, Booklist

"Addresses these ethical dilemmas with sensitivity and compassion, objectivity and good science. Particularly appropriate for sharing with parents, it is must viewing for all professionals who care for children and families." M. Harry Jennison, MD, Former Director, American Academy of Pediatrics

Awards & Conference Screenings
Zero to Three Training Institute
Association for Moral Education

Related Films
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.

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.

Banking Our Genes: Invites viewers to think about the ethical, public policy, and privacy issues involved in the collection and banking of DNA data about individuals.

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

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