This paper describes a qualitative research that used small group discussion activities centered in biotechnology and genetics controversies as a contribution to the promotion of students' thinking tools. Students' written conclusions and reflections about the activities, teachers' interviews, participant observation of the classes, and their…

Focuses on the strategy of using the science of genetics to pepetuate the racism of the dominant society, proposing that arguments presented by the "liberal" proponents of special programs in abandoning the goals of the 1960s were used to rationalize the reopening of the latent question of genetic black inferiority. (Author/JM)

Results achieved by researchers in the field of genetic plant engineering are described. However, it is believed that if their efforts were more decentralized, more farmers, especially in developing countries, could benefit and substantial advances made in production. (BL)

A critique arguing: (1) that the assumptions underlying the use of intelligence tests are invalid; (2) that findings regarding individual differences can not be generalized to differences between populations; and, (3) that the studies cited as evidence were both incorrectly designed and improperly executed. (JM)

Unlike the social insect, man is profoundly ambivalent in his social role: the behavioral dispositions which produce complex social interdependence and self-sacrificial altruism must be produced by culturally evolved indoctrination, which has had to counter self-serving genetic tendencies. (Author/JM)

Isolates and tries to explain a phenomenon called the altruistic paradox, which refers to the fact that mankind individually and collectively can be both cruel and kind at one and the same time. (Author/JM)

Describes redesigning of a genetics course on the basis of Pella's referents, Banathy's system, and Bloom's taxonomy in effort to evaluate affectively behavioral changes among reference groups of science and nonscience majors, in addition to genetics students. Indicates preference of learning environment to course content in results analysis. (CC)

Knowledge about gene defects (such as the Sickle Cell Gene) should be given to those who show positive laboratory tests. Conflict between gene therapy, aimed at removing the defective gene, and ethical problems should be resolved from the perspective of the effect on future generations. (PS)

Analyzes and refutes two propositions of H.J. Eysenck: (a) that intellectual differences in our culture are overwhelmingly determined by genetic factors, and (b) that the 15-point mean I.Q. gap between black and white Americans is largely determined by genetic factors. (JM)

Topic 7, Atomic Bombs and Radiation, from a theme issue on Teaching World History Through Science Fiction, stimulates discussion on mutation and radiation effects. (JB)