This IQP investigated DNA fingerprinting technology and its effects on today's society. The first chapter traces the history of the discovery and study of DNA, describing its chemical make-up, how it is analyzed, and some key aspects of its analysis in forensics. The next two chapters address the use of DNA in criminal investigations and legal proceedings, touching on several landmark and sensational court cases that set legal precedence or brought DNA to the public's attention. The last chapter describes the rationale of DNA databases and discusses the morality of using these storage vaults of information as they pertain to people's privacy. The authors then offer their own conclusions on this powerful technology.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Moseley, Ryan Alexander
• Swalec, Lauren

Subject

• Community
• Security

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-031111-211853

Keyword

• DNA fingerprinting
• Science--Study and teaching

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 2011

Date created

• 2011-03-11

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright