Il ruolo dell’epigenetica tra il paradigma dell'identità e quello della responsabilità

Epigenetics is that part of genetics that investigates genic expression, otherwise known as the phenotype. In very simple terms, these investigations concern the modes of expression of the gene, which in health and disease alike expresses itself in relation to multiple factors, inclusive of all the interactions our organism has with the internal and external environment. Recent scientific evidence suggests that the interaction between epigenetic mutations and lifestyle may be much broader than previously thought: Epigenetic changes are now thought to play a role actually “mediating” among a great many environmental stimuli that may cause changes in the organism. It follows that the range of ethical and legal questions tied to the advances made in genetic research in the late 20th century should now be broadened so as to also consider the implications of epigenetics. Here we will look at two such implications in particular, one having to do with the paradigm of human and personal identity, the other with that of our moral responsibility, rights, and duties vis-à-vis future generations.