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The Genetic Lottery

Why DNA Matters for Social Equality

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The Genetic Lottery

By: Kathryn Paige Harden
Narrated by: Katherine Fenton
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Summary

This audiobook narrated by Katherine Fenton makes a provocative and timely case for how the science of genetics can help create a more just and equal society
In recent years, scientists like Kathryn Paige Harden have shown that DNA makes us different, in our personalities and in our health—and in ways that matter for educational and economic success in our current society.
In The Genetic Lottery, Harden introduces readers to the latest genetic science, dismantling dangerous ideas about racial superiority and challenging us to grapple with what equality really means in a world where people are born different. Weaving together personal stories with scientific evidence, Harden shows why our refusal to recognize the power of DNA perpetuates the myth of meritocracy, and argues that we must acknowledge the role of genetic luck if we are ever to create a fair society.
Reclaiming genetic science from the legacy of eugenics, this groundbreaking book offers a bold new vision of society where everyone thrives, regardless of how one fares in the genetic lottery.

©2021 Princeton University Press (P)2021 Princeton University Press Biological Sciences Biology Ethics & Morality Evolution & Genetics Genetics Philosophy Science Social Classes & Economic Disparity Social Policy Sociology

Critic Reviews

"An Economist Book of the Year"
"A welcome resource for scholars and policy makers who want to advocate for and initiate equitable social changes with the help of reliable, expert knowledge."—J. F. Heberle, Choice (J. F. Heberle)
All stars
Most relevant
I really enjoy this book, well researched and thoughtful. And I agree with the author's philosophical view on how genetics studies should be used to address social inequality.The book used results from research studies and statistics to make her points, unlike many of the popular psychology books in which statements are made without good evidence.

A good book on genetics and social inequality

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