Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2006
Abstract
Researchers studying human behavioral genetics have made significant scientific progress in enhancing our understanding of the relative contributions of genetics and the environment in observed variations in human behavior. Quickly outpacing the advances in the science are its applications in the criminal justice system. Already, human behavioral genetics research has been introduced in the U.S. criminal justice system, and its use will only become more prevalent. This essay discusses the recent historical use of behavioral genetics in criminal cases, recent advances in two gene variants of particular interest in the criminal law, MAOA and SLC6A4, the recent expert testimony on behalf of criminal defendants with respect to these two gene variants, and the future direction of behavioral genetics evidence in criminal cases.
Citation
Nita A. Farahany and William Bernet, Behavioural Genetics in Criminal Cases: Past, Present and Future, 2 Genomics, Society & Policy 72-79 (May 2006)
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Monoamine oxidase, Expert evidence, Serotonin, Genetics, Violence, Neurosciences
Included in
Behavioral Neurobiology Commons, Criminal Law Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons
Available at: https://scholarship.law.duke.edu/faculty_scholarship/2656