Dr Catrin Rutland, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, delivers the lecture ‘Science fiction vs science facts: imagining the future of genetics‘.

In the 1950’s, a new science was born, yet scientists and the literature had long been fascinated with what we now call ‘Genetics’. Long before the term genetics existed, writers were effectively exploring the idea of genetic manipulation, breeding and future science. From Huxley to Crichton and Attwood to Orwell, there has always been an interest in the world of genetics, both in literature and in the world as a whole.

This talk will explore how much of this science fiction has, or will, become fact. Where does the future lie with genetics and what does this mean for us and the next generations? Do we have a voice and opinion in how these technologies are used and does this voice come out through literature? Can we control the technology and what regulations are in place? Will humans benefit from genomics? Did a book written 2000 years ago really hint at epigenetics?

As we explore the predictions and portrayal of genetics within literature, we start to unravel the possibilities of science in relation to the ethics of our society.

Admission free, all welcome.

Part of the Popular Culture Lecture Series. For more information, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

Art by Jason Courtney