The DNA database currently holds DNA samples of convicted criminals, suspects, witnesses, victims, children and people who were not charged with an offence. Once on the database, your DNA cannot be removed. The DNA database is discussed showing issues, both for and against the database. Certain issues raised are social and ethical issues, medical and economic issues and issues with the crime system
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction of a Compulsory DNA Database
- Arguments for a Compulsory DNA Database
- Arguments against a Compulsory DNA Database
- Ethical Issues
- Medical Issues
- Economic Issues
- Crime System Issues
- Enforcing a DNA Database
- Security of a DNA Database
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This report aims to explore the various arguments for and against the introduction of a compulsory DNA database in the United Kingdom. It examines the potential benefits and drawbacks, considering both the ethical, legal, and practical implications of such a system.- The potential benefits of a compulsory DNA database for solving crimes, particularly cold cases.
- Concerns about the potential for misuse of DNA data, including wrongful convictions due to unintentional DNA transfer and the possibility of evidence planting.
- The ethical and legal considerations surrounding the collection and use of DNA samples, including issues of privacy, consent, and autonomy.
- The potential impact of a compulsory DNA database on medical research and the development of new treatments for diseases.
- The feasibility and cost implications of establishing and maintaining a nationwide DNA database.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The report begins by introducing the concept of a compulsory DNA database and the current state of DNA databases in the UK. It then outlines the potential benefits of a compulsory database, including its use in crime solving, particularly in cold cases. The report continues by exploring the various arguments against a compulsory DNA database. These include concerns about the potential for misuse of DNA data, including wrongful convictions due to unintentional DNA transfer and the possibility of evidence planting. The report also examines the ethical and legal considerations surrounding the collection and use of DNA samples, including issues of privacy, consent, and autonomy. The report then discusses the potential impact of a compulsory DNA database on medical research and the development of new treatments for diseases. It also examines the feasibility and cost implications of establishing and maintaining a nationwide DNA database. The report concludes by summarizing the arguments for and against a compulsory DNA database and offers a personal opinion on the issue.Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This report focuses on the concept of a compulsory DNA database, exploring its potential benefits and drawbacks. It examines key themes related to crime solving, ethical considerations, medical research, and the feasibility of implementation. Key terms include DNA database, privacy, consent, autonomy, crime solving, medical research, and feasibility.Frequently Asked Questions
What is a compulsory DNA database?
It is a system that would store DNA samples from all citizens, regardless of whether they have committed a crime, to aid in national security and law enforcement.
What are the main arguments in favor of a DNA database?
The primary benefits include increased efficiency in solving crimes, identifying suspects in cold cases, and deterring potential criminals.
What are the ethical concerns regarding DNA storage?
Key issues involve the right to privacy, the lack of consent for those not charged with offenses, and the potential for genetic discrimination.
Could a DNA database lead to wrongful convictions?
Yes, there are risks of unintentional DNA transfer or the possibility of evidence planting, which could lead to miscarriages of justice.
How could a DNA database benefit medical research?
A large-scale database could provide valuable data for genetic research, potentially leading to new treatments for various diseases.
- Quote paper
- Lea Weller BA (Author), 2008, The Introduction of a Compulsory DNA Database, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/264567
