The GENOGRAPHIC project, organized as a research partnership of National Geographic and IBM, proposes to explore the migratory history of man by analysing mutation patterns in mitichondrial DNA and the Y chromosome. The focus will be on indigenous populations, but individuals from the general public are invited to participate by anonymously submitting two samples of DNA (buccal swabs) and a fee of $100. Some of us are torn between interest in the project and concern that this vast collection of diverse genetic material may be used in other applications (for instance, the establishment of a genetic research bank using the spare second sample...). Any insights, advice, reassurances or caveats from someone more fully acquainted with this would be much appreciated.
http://www3.nationalgeographic.com/genographic/
Hello,
I looked at several alternative, progressive databases of magazine/newspaper articles for critical analysis of the Genographic Project. These included Alternative Press Index, AltPress Watch, Ethnic NewsWatch and Gender Watch. Nothing useful turned up. The only articles found were from mainstream publications and they were brief and "newsy" in nature. Since this is a very new initiative from National Geographic, I believe we are dealing with a time lag in article publication. Perhaps in a few months time, you'll see more in the popular and alternative press.
At this point, I would recommend using the Web for what it does best: Weblogs and Discussion groups. These are places where you can find what people are saying about your topic - both regular folks and pundits. Blogs are basically personal websites that are updated frequently (oftentimes daily) and usually include commentary/analysis on current events. Some are general, others deal with specific subjects. Discussion groups are online communities where people come together to discuss topics of common interest. They are almost always subject oriented.
For searching blogs try entering "Genographic Project" into the search boxes of the foilowing blog search engines:
http://www.daypop.com/
http://www.feedster.com/
http://www.technorati.com
For searching discussion groups:
http://groups-beta.google.com/
http://www.boardreader.com
Here is a group you might want to consider researching. They are critical of the Genographic Project.
(last i checked, their site was down)
The Indigenous Peoples Council on Biocolonialism (IPCB)
http://www.ipcb.org/