An evaluation of the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications program of the U.S. Human Genome Project

The Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) program is an in-house evaluation program for the United States Human Genome Project. Understanding the ethical and moral implications of genetic information and technology is crucial towards ensuring the proper use of genetic data. The ELSI programs have had a positive influence in understanding problematic areas surrounding the HGP by acting as a center for discussion for many bioethicists and scientists. However, ELSI is often too passive and does not provide enough practical guidance to the public on the complex implications of the HGP. As it stands now, there is room for major improvement such as increased cooperation between ELSI and non-government organizations. NGO's would serve as bridges between ELSI and the public, and a collaboration would enable in-depth probing and more comprehensive analysis of issues of public concern.