Genetic Databases and Public Attitudes: a Comparison of Iceland, Estonia and the UK

Külliki Korts¹, Sue Weldon², Margrét Lilja Guðmundsdóttir³

¹University of Tartu, ²Lancaster University, ³University of Iceland

Abstract. The paper discusses the public perceptions of population based genetic databases in the three countries where these plans have been most fully developed – UK, Iceland and Estonia. Drawing on various qualitative and quantitative studies, the article discusses how differences in the context of introducing the idea, in terms of previous experience with gene technology and general attitudes towards science and technology sphere, have influenced the nature and volume of concerns in respect to gene banks among the general public, as well as the very design of the projects. It is suggested that in all three cases, the most significant aspect of the public’s attitude to genetic databases – and a crucial factor in the eventual success or failure of the projects – will rest on a perception of the trustworthiness of the professionals and institutions involved in setting up and operating the databases.