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Statements posted on this blog represent the views of individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Center for Law Science & Innovation (which does not take positions on policy issues) or of the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law or Arizona State University.

Tuesday Triple Trivia Tease for July 15, 2014

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0K74J7ieOk/UzrhxRBgAUI/AAAAAAAAACY/2aA-ZqPhouk/s1600/Trivia-Tuesday-logo.jpg

3 Questions.  3 Hints.  3 Answers. Every Tuesday.

1.  In what area might genetics be making yet another impact?

Hint:

http://www.cartoonstock.com/newscartoons/cartoonists/jdi/lowres/food-drink-grocery_store-market-supermarket-groceries-shopping-jdin842l.jpg

Answer: turns out there’s a “genetics of taste” opening the door even further for a better understanding of consumer food choices and related repercussions, like obesity and disease.  Genetic markers may provide insight into what makes some run to the veggie aisle while others gravitate toward the ice cream section of a grocery store.   While genetic factors may influence choices and tastes, one likely should not completely discount the impact of acquired family eating habits, nutritional education, income or indolence versus diligence when it comes to making a meal from scratch.  In other words, while genetics may provide additional and meaningful information in this area, it is merely a piece of the puzzle that, at this stage of research, should not be used as a pivotal excuse for ever-rising obesity rates and associated health effects in many parts of the world.  Read the details here.

2.  Forget botox.  What is the next generation of human enhancement taking shape?

Hint:Answer: biohacking refers to the subdermal insertion of technology to produce or enhance certain bodily sensations or functions.   Proponents of this movement query whether there is a true difference between having a pacemaker or other surgical implant and say, a magnet, computer chip or other technology embedded in one’s body to help it function better?  Opponents, on the other hand, differentiate between essential medical technology that allows one to live or function in the manner nature intended and biologically unnecessary technological transhumanist enhancements.   Embedding requires a trip to your local “body modification” shop or trial-and-error do-it-yourself surgery.  Read more here.

3.  While a cat is said to have 9 lives, what or who might be eligible for at least 2 lives in the years to come?

Hint:

Answer: who will most likely benefit from scientific medical breakthroughs, possibly extending the lifespan for some well above 100 years? Not surprisingly, those who will be able to afford and have access to future extraordinary novelties currently being researched and concocted by clever and prescient scientists.   A longevity gap between the wealthy and the poor is nothing new – what is new is the potential considerable increase in size of the gap, whereby the underprivileged live to age 60 and the privileged to age 120.  Read the story here.