The genome and public choices: new questions for Anthropology

The advances in genomic research are deeply changing many aspects of biological research. In fact, they have altered the relationships between nature and body, chance and choice, necessity, freedom and possibility. While some basic certainties are now being challenged, the discussion concerning biosciences is becoming an opportunity to rethink the processes of reorganization of scientifi c research, focusing on the implications for social sciences, law and politics. An excellent exemplifi cation and a case of particular interest to Anthropologists is provided by the issues surrounding the mass genetic screening in Iceland.