Group+A_2


 * Group Members**
 * Arkosi Mariann**
 * Wermuth Helga Andrea**
 * Kerekes Melinda**
 * Mate Borbala**

The ongoing project to map the human genome affects all of us in several key areas. The first is [|DNA testing]. This subfield of gene research uses tiny human [|tissue samples] of 100–200 cells (for example, blood, hair, saliva) to identify DNA patterns. These samples are used to establish a person’s identity, for example, in (1) tests for blood relationships such as parenthood, (2) identification of criminals (rapists, murderers), and (3) proving the innocence of people falsely accused of a crime. In this testing, the DNA pattern of a person’s hair, blood or saliva is matched with a similar DNA sample from a second person. For example, when establishing parenthood, DNA from the mother or father is matched with DNA from the fetus or child. When identifying criminals, DNA samples from the crime scene are matched with a suspect’s DNA. **Some benefits of DNA testing are clear and unquestioned**. It is a key tool in the criminal justice system, helping courts to discover whether a person suspected of committing a crime is guilty or innocent and helping police to find criminals. It has even been used to prove the innocence of criminals on death row many years after a crime was committed. In addition, it is replacing genealogy and family trees as a method for determining [|ancestry]. A famous case is the link that was established between the children of Sally Hemmings, a black slave, and U.S. President Thomas Jefferson. In most cases, DNA testing has been beneficial. However, for those who wish to hide their identity (such as fathers who do not want to take financial responsibility for their children), it has unwanted consequences. For families researching their background, it is much more reliable and less time-consuming than constructing the [|genealogy] of a person. However, it can also reveal things that they do not want to know, forever changing a person’s concept of family and self. Furthermore, DNA testing has become a business. Even funeral homes and burial services now offer to save DNA samples (e.g., hair, blood) for a fee. This raises questions of both privacy and ethics.
 * DNA Testing: Advantages and Disadvantages **

Summarise the information from the following page [|Nature vs. Nurture in the Criminal Justice System] to exemplify issues developed in the paragraph above.


 * Advantages, Examples**


 * Disadvantages, Examples**