Ethics instruction in an issues-oriented course on public health genetics

Abstract

Public health ethics and genetics in public health have in the last decade emerged as fields in their own right. This article describes the ethics component of an "Issues in Public Health Genetics" course uniting the fields of genetics, ethics, and public health. As the third member of the University of Michigan Interdepartmental Concentration in Genetics, the course emphasizes the translation of ethical-social issues into substantive policies. A central tension repeated throughout the course exists between respect for individuals' libertarian interests and the welfare of the entire population. Students become familiar with the process of resolving conflicting values through interactive exercises addressing the health needs of diverse communities. Key lessons in course design are described.