Introduction to “Genetics Law, Ethics, Psychology”

Recently, significant developments have emerged in the science of genetics. Determining genetic map of various living beings including humans, cloning, identifying genetic causes of diseases and diagnosing them based on genetic data are among the prominent evolutions in this field. All these novel achievements have raised some questionable issues in different fields of ethics, law and psychology.
Form the legal point of view, there are some challenges surrounding the findings of genetics. Generally, collection, processing, storage and use of human genetic data potentially threaten fundamental freedoms, observance and performance of human rights, respect to human dignity and social relations. So, there is need to review and establish new laws to regulate and control the process. New emerged achievements, also, widely affect issues of criminology and introduce new opinions in this field.
Development, particularly, in the field of human genome and inappropriate use of genetic knowledge has grown a number of ethical concerns. For instance, employers and insurance companies may abuse new genetic findings and violate ethical principles such as respect to human autonomy, equity and nondiscrimination. In addition, increasing use of gene therapy may possibly cause to diminish unpleasant social traits and restore eugenics to improve human species.
Considering the effect of genes on behavior and development of personality, new findings can be applied in behavioral psychology. The effect is eminent both theoretically and practically. This area also deals with numerous discussions.
Although genetic technology is inevitably progressing, it is necessary to organize the following social consequences that would be ethically acceptable. Accordingly, Avicenna Research Institute (ARI) intends to hold a seminar on "Genetics: Law, Ethics and Psychology" to consider various dimensions of genetic findings. Besides considering different branches of the science of genetics, the cutting edge theories, findings and guidelines are presented and related legal, ethical and psychological aspects discussed in this event.

Objectives:

1.	Considering legal aspects of using human, animal and plant genetic data
2.	Considering ethical aspects of using genetic engineering for treating human illnesses and manipulation of physical appearance, as well as animal and plant cloning
3.	Considering psychological aspects of genetic impact on human traits and behavior
4.	Considering different aspects of the modern science of genetics and its application in human society

Particular Targets:

1.	Providing an opportunity for different experts to discuss, in an interdisciplinary way, various areas of genetics
2.	Promoting awareness of geneticists about different human aspects of genetic activities
3.	Raising awareness of humanities students and experts about widespread influence of biogenetic activities
4.	Evaluating current views and introducing guidelines to resolve challenges arising out of genetic developments concerning human beings, animals and plants