T he topic of genes, genetics and ethical issues that surround them have become quite popular in recent years.
Geneticists are concerned with how traits are passed from generation to generation.
These are some of the questions that occupy them. H owever the study is far from being a passive observation and collection of information. Scientists deliberately manipulate genes in order to produce disease resistant varieties of crops and animals. The study of genetics has been employed to confirm the parentage of children, identify birth defects, devise methods of treatment for genetic diseases, and trace the identities of criminals through hair or blood samples left on the scene. T he field has a fast developing trajectory in the area of genetic counseling, which combines genetics, psychology and social work to counsel people in the areas of pregnancies and other genetic defects and abnormalities.