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Future Perfect: Conversations on the Meaning of the Genetics Revolution

There is a scientific revolution taking place that has the potential to change American society in profound ways. Advances in genetics hold much promise for combating disease, feeding more people, and generally improving our quality of life. Yet, these new sciences and technologies draw criticism and evoke fears. In the next decade, major decisions about genetics will be made. The courts, corporations, laboratories, and legislatures will be some of the places where these issues will play out. It is more important than ever that we all understand the issues.

The Illinois Humanities Council believes humanistic questions can illuminate these issues. The debate over genetically modified foods includes questions about how we share our wealth with the entire world. Debates over cloning involve the question of what it means to be human. If research suggests that much of our make-up is determined by our genes, then what does it mean to be free? Are advances in genetics ultimately a quest for "perfection"? Future Perfect: Conversations on the Meaning of the Genetics Revolution seeks to increase public knowledge of genetics by engaging Illinoisans in conversations about the genetics revolution and its impact on the individual and on society.

For more than 30 years, through its grants and programs, the Illinois Humanities Council has gathered communities together with humanities scholars, writers, artists, and other experts to reflect on what it means to be human. We invite you to join us from September 2006 to September 2007 across the state as we "Dare to Know" what the past, present, and future of the genetics revolution means for all of us.

For details on the events in this year-long series, please click on "Events/Activities" in the blue box to your right. Please check back for more details on future events in the series as they will be updated periodically.

All events are free and open to the public. Reservations are required. We will begin accepting reservations six weeks before each event. Reservations can be made on-line, via email, or by calling 312.422.5580.

If you need a sign interpreter or require other arrangements to fully participate, please call 312.422.5580.

Sponsors: The Boeing Company and Motorola Foundation
Media Sponsors: Illinois Channel and Chicago Public Radio