scientist cannot simply do "pure" research, because in almost all branches of science, there is no such thing. Science is embedded in our society, and when science is applied, it has repercussions that are broad-reaching, whether it is the discovery and application of a new drug, a new material, or a new type of computer or diagnostic tool. Therefore, scientists must understand the culture in which they are working, and advocate for the support of their research as well as its ethical application.

A case in point is genetic anthropology, a field of research that uses the human genome to trace our origins on this planet and also to understand the differences between groups of people. Subtle but consistent differences in our genome may lead to a deeper understanding not only of our origins and the way we spread out on this planet, but of genetic vulnerabilities to certain illnesses...
[ View Full Essay]