Question

The human genome project is dedicated to the sequencing of the human genetic code. Some people are opposed to sequencing the genomes of individuals, for privacy, among other reasons.

However, there are two sides to this issue. What is one potential benefit of genome sequencing that can be weighed against possible negative effects?

Answer 1

the sequencing of Human genome allows one to predict what kind of diseases / disorders he/she is suffering from or might acquire in the future. This is the positive side as one can start medication/treatment at an early stage before the disease takes it toll. But since genome sequencing reveals your health status it might deter companies from hiring you if you are prone to getting say cancer or other diseases in the future thus creating discrimination. In fact insurance companies would also back out from giving you health insurance. Genome sequencing also provides information regarding your origins like whether you are a russian / american / british thus leading to social discrimination. these are the negative sides