2016 Annual Conference VIDEO

The Search for Genetic Origins of Human Behavior: Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications

The search for genes that influence human behavior raises important ethical, legal, and social issues.  How will our attitudes change if we learn that people’s behavior is due, at least in part, to genes?  Should genetic tests that predict tendencies to behave in certain ways be developed, and if so, how should they be used?   If genetic contributions to gender identity are found, will that alter how we view sexuality and gender?  What impact will identification of genes that contribute to criminal behavior, including violence, have on our views about personal responsibility?  Should the legal system alter its approach to culpability for criminal actions and punishment? At this conference, ethical, legal, and social issues related to behavior genetics will be discussed in the context of two particularly timely topics: gender identity and violent behavior.

April 11, 2016  from 1:00 PM – 5:30PM

Light refreshments will be served

Faculty House, Columbia University • 64 Morningside Drive, New York, NY             (Directions – enter from 116th street between Amsterdam & Morningside Drive)

PLEASE REGISTER!

The conference is free and open to the public, but registration is required as space is limited.

To register please email ry2134@cumc.columbia.edu by March 28, 2016.

PROGRAM

1:00-1:10      Welcome and Introduction       Ruth Ottman, PhD

1:10-1:50
Genetic Research on Human Behavior: Current Status and Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications
Eric Turkheimer, PhD

1:50-2:00     Discussion

Topic 1: Gender Identity

2:00-2:30
Genetic Influences on Gender Identity: What Do We Know and What Are the Implications?
Eric Vilain, MD, PhD

2:30-3:00
Ethical Issues Raised by Genetic Research on Gender Identity
Jack Drescher, MD

3:00-3:20    Discussion moderated by Robert Klitzman, MD

3:20-3:40      BREAK

Topic 2: Violent Behavior

3:40-4:10
Genetic influences on Aggression and Violent Behavior: What Do We Know and What Are the Implications?
S. Alexandra Burt, PhD

4:10-4:40
Ethical Issues Raised by Genetic Research on Violent Behavior
James Tabery, PhD

4:40-5:00     Discussion moderated by Paul Appelbaum, MD

5:00-5:30     Closing Discussion – All Speakers