Since the essence of being that is commonly described as the purview of the soul is still unknown, our genetic material is considered the main component of who we are. It is the blueprint by which our bodies and minds are constructed. Therefore, it is natural that most people would consider their personal genetic code to be their property, to be guarded and controlled.

However, there are also valid reasons why a person's genetic data should be extracted and kept on file. It can reveal propensities for the onset of disease and point the way to curing illness. It is clear that in the future, many fatal diseases will be recognized in the DNA before the onset of symptoms and the disease will be cured when it is only a potential.

These two opposing forces are heavily debated in this book, with no clear resolution as to what the appropriate position is. I was impressed with the quality of the arguments, in other books I have read about human cloning; some of the reasons against were too shrill and emotional. These arguments are based on sound social, economic, biological and ethical considerations.

Identity theft is a growing problem in modern society; millions of dollars of fraud is committed every year. Unfortunately, while the application of genetic information has the potential to do great good, if it is misused, it could be enormously destructive. It is no exaggeration to claim that the improper use of genetic information could alter the human species. For these reasons, every citizen has a stake in the direction of genetic research and how a person's genetic data is used. Using the articles in this book, it is possible to understand the debate and get the information so that you can form your own opinion based on the facts.

Undoubtedly, many other books will follow in the field, in the years ahead. Currently, computational genomics is in its infancy. The amount that is known is surely orders of magnitude less than what will follow, as biologists investigate further the development process at higher levels than the DNA.

So in a sense, Tavani hopes to raise awareness now. He discusses various problems with the use or abuse of information about people. As computational genomics can find out more about a given person, what social ill effects might result if the information got out to unauthorised parties? Who has a right to the data?

Plus, what if advances in understanding are made as a consequence of a person's data. Does she or should she benefit, beyond receiving any possible therapies? Bluntly, can she collect royalties from something derived from her body?