Abstract

As we enter the new century, humanity wields increasing power to understand, alter, and control the world in which we live. The mysteries of our genetic code provide remarkable new insights into our unique human characteristics. Rapid developments in information technology provide instant access to limitless data. The information age has taken hold, and the genetic revolution is in full swing. With apologies to Aldous Huxley, we stand at the precipice of a brave new world.It has been just 50 years since James Watson and Francis Crick's groundbreaking discovery of the double helix. Since then, profound developments in the science of genetics have been staggering. More staggering still are the potential benefits, the boundless horizons, the promised and unimagined applications of their work, and the work of the many scientists involved in the sequencing of the human genome. There can be no doubt that a firm and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humankind has fueled this tireless effort.