ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to demonstrate why human genetic technology is so controversial. It reviews the traditional relationship between technology and society, summarizes the current state of and possible future developments in human genetic technology, and discusses the political and social issues raised by such innovations and applications. A major factor contributing to the confusion and fueling the controversy over government involvement in genetic technology is the inability or unwillingness to define clearly what such involvement entails. There are numerous formal and informal mechanisms available for making decisions relating to genetic technology. Central to the concept of democracy is the principle that the public interest somehow be reflected in public policy. Although Congress has not expressed a desire to make genetic intervention policy, several pieces of legislation in the 1970s demonstrate pressures for national action. The complex issues raised by human genetic technology require mechanisms designed to provide more adequate public as well as expert input.
