DNA

Half a century ago, the first humans hopped on the moon, but it is only in recent years that our DNA has revealed its secrets. One breakthrough follows the other in rapid succession and it is happening so fast that legislation is hopelessly lagging behind. Fortunately, Lieven Scheire is up to date with the latest developments. Not only does the science comedian illustrate the latest insights in DNA research, Scheire also raises the question of what we actually do with it. The first genetically modified human has now been born, but would you have your own child genetically modified? This way you can prevent serious illnesses—and at the same time you can give your child some extra talents. Should the police have access to the DNA of citizens? You may fear a police state, but new DNA techniques are shedding new light on murder cases that have remained unsolved for a long time. Do you have your DNA read for genealogical research? Fine, but then you may discover an unpleasant truth about your grandmother's marital fidelity. Very soon, a lot will become possible and we must start thinking about the decisions we have to make. Lieven Scheire looks ahead to the near future and you can decide for yourself whether that future makes you hopeful or anxious. In the meantime, you can come up with hundreds of incredibly interesting facts about our DNA