Analyzing My Own Assumptions

Using the information I have found in my text, I can now analyze my own personal views of the culture the article addresses.

Nast, Thomas. "Boss Tweed"  October 21, 1871
Public Domain.

• What cultural values or beliefs do we share with the culture in which the text was written

The culture in which the article addresses is very similar to the one we live in; especially, when many of the individuals who the author cites as customers to the many genome sequencing companies are American citizens. However not many Americans know that there is a growing industry in medical gene sequencing and its associated DNA mapping.Research in the aspects and physical structure of DNA has been an accepted science for almost sixty years. However there has been a growing misconception with the study as it has been ignorantly associated with Planned Parenthood, "mad science" genetic engineering, or with cloning. I believe that the research and practice of gene mapping is necessary for the progression of modern medicine and the personalizing of healthcare on an individual level.

• What cultural or social values, beliefs, etc. , do we not share? Why not?

I have a hard time believing that the genome sequencing business will contribute to a generation of wealthy individuals practicing "genetic elitism" or pay for the alteration of their own genetic code to become more ideal. This is partly due to the fact that it is currently impossible to alter one's DNA after birth and due the limited population of individuals who have paid to map their DNA code. Plus the use of elitism has a  loaded meaning in an attempt to compare the science to far right or far left politics. 

• If the text was written in a different time or place/culture, what differences would you see? 

Since this article is written for a more Westernized audience, I feel that any other culture- those with less of a tolerance to this level of science or human engineering in general- might find this information as a sign of religious blasphemy or science-gone-wrong. However, in the culture in which this article was written for may find the information troubling due to its reference to term "elitism" and the growing social-economic gap. If this article was written a decade ago the idea that someone can afford such mapping on a personal level- without government grants- would be seen as ridiculous or on the lines of science fiction.

Reflection:

After reading the posts made by Jayni and Savannah, I was able see two authors present more personalized information in a well thought out and organized manner. Each writer cited both sides of the argument in terms of the issue and then sided with one of the positions- using the information presented to give reasoning for their decision. Savannah was especially good when it came to explaining the issue even though the topic was rather difficult to understand. Jayni was great when it cam to giving context to the issue before pointing out her position. I need to use the same strategies in order to make my issue more transparent.