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. 2022 Oct 19:1-24.
doi: 10.1057/s41292-022-00286-4. Online ahead of print.

Epigenetic citizenship and political claims-making: the ethics of molecularizing structural racism

Jessica P Cerdeña  1   2
Affiliations

Epigenetic citizenship and political claims-making: the ethics of molecularizing structural racism

Jessica P Cerdeña. Biosocieties. .

Abstract

Epigenetics has generated excitement over its potential to inform health disparities research by capturing the molecular signatures of social experiences. This paper highlights the concerns implied by these expectations of epigenetics research and discusses the possible ramifications of 'molecularizing' the forms of social suffering currently examined in epigenetics studies. Researchers working with oppressed populations-particularly racially marginalized groups-should further anticipate how their results might be interpreted to avoid fueling prejudiced claims of biological essentialism. Introducing the concept of 'epigenetic citizenship,' this paper considers the ways environmentally responsive methylation cues may be used in direct-to-consumer testing, healthcare, and biopolitical interactions. The conclusion addresses the future of social epigenetics research and the utility of an epigenetic citizenship framework.

Keywords: Bioethics; Biological citizenship; Epigenetic citizenship; Epigenetics; Genetic citizenship; Health disparities; Racism.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestThis manuscript comprised original material that is not under review elsewhere and the authors have no competing interests, intellectual or financial, to declare.

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