In today’s world, we often hear about the power of genetics. We are told that our genes determine everything from our health to our intelligence. But what if this idea is not only wrong but also dangerous? This is one of the main arguments in Ian Myles’ book, “GATTACA Has Fallen: How Population Genetics Failed the Populace.”

Genetic determinism is the belief that our genes control almost everything about us. According to this idea, if you have a certain gene, you are much more likely to have a certain trait or disease. For example, if you have a gene linked to asthma, you will likely develop asthma. While genetics does play a role in our health, Myles argues that this belief in genetic determinism is flawed and harmful.

Myles explains that genetic determinism oversimplifies the complex relationship between our genes and our environment. While it is true that some diseases are caused by specific genes, these cases are rare. Most common diseases, like asthma or allergies, are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For example, even if two people might have the same “risk gene” for asthma, but only one might develop the disease if they are exposed to pollution or allergens in their environment.

The book shows that the obsession with finding “the gene for” every disease has led scientists to ignore the environment’s role in health. This has resulted in missed opportunities to prevent diseases by cleaning up our air, water, and food.

Myles also warns that genetic determinism can have serious social consequences. When people believe that their health is determined solely by their genes, they may feel powerless to change their situation. This can lead to fatalism, where people accept their health problems as inevitable instead of taking steps to improve their environment or lifestyle.

Moreover, Myles points out that genetic determinism can reinforce harmful stereotypes. For example, the idea that certain racial or ethnic groups are genetically predisposed to certain traits can fuel racism. This is not just a theoretical concern—history has shown that such beliefs can lead to discrimination and even violence.

In the book, Myles discusses a tragic example of how genetic determinism can have deadly consequences. In 2022, a man carried out a mass shooting in Buffalo, New York, killing ten people. The shooter was reportedly influenced by beliefs in genetic superiority and racial differences. This horrific event highlights the dangers of spreading ideas that suggest some people are “genetically inferior” to others. Myles argues that while most scientists who study genetics are not racist, the way genetic research is communicated can be misused by those with harmful agendas.