Biosocialities, Genetics and the Social Sciences

Biosocialities, Genetics and the Social Sciences explores the social, cultural and economic transformations that result from innovations in genomic knowledge and technology.

This pioneering collection uses Paul Rabinow’s concept of biosociality to chart the shifts in social relations and ideas about nature, biology and identity brought about by developments in biomedicine. Based on new empirical research, it contains chapters on genomic research into embryonic stem cell therapy, breast cancer, autism, Parkinson’s and IVF treatment, as well as on the expectations and education surrounding genomic research.

It covers four main themes:

• novel modes of identity and identification, such as genetic citizenship


• the role of institutions, ranging from disease advocacy organizations and voluntary organizations to the state


• the production of biological knowledge, novel life-forms, and technologies


• the generation of wealth and commercial interests in biology.

Including an afterword by Paul Rabinow and case studies on the UK, US, Canada, Germany, India and Israel, this book is key reading for students and researchers of the new genetics and the social sciences – particularly medical sociologists, medical anthropologists and those involved with science and technology studies.

Introduction: Making Biosociality: Biologies and Identities in Formation / Sahra Gibbon and Carlos Novas  1. Cultures of Nature: The Rise of Embryonic Stem Cell Therapies in India / Aditya Bharadwaj, University of Edinburgh  2. Citizenship, gender and the legacy of BRCA genetics / Sahra Gibbon, University College London  3. Brains, pedigrees and Promises: Lessons From the Politics of Autism Genetics / Chloe Silverman, Cornell University  4. We the Patients: Patients, Parkinson’s and Representation / Annemiek Nelis, Gerard de Vries & Rob Hagendijk, University of Amsterdam  5. Making Babies, (Un)Making Borders: Biosociality in Israeli IVF / Michal Nahman, Lancaster University  6. Reproductive Modernity and IVF in Ecuador / Elizabeth Roberts University of California, Berkeley  7. Making Biological Citizens: Managing Hope, Science and Potential Consumers of Genomic Innovations / Carlos Novas, London School of Economics  Afterword: Paul Rabinow, University of California, Berkeley