bioethics

GATTACA (1997) is a futuristic look at the bioethics and societal implications of genetic engineering. This classic has aged well over the years. The special effects, however, take a backseat to the fabulous storyline. This is a great film designed to get the students thinking about some of the choices they might have to make when considering the rapid progress of the genetics field and the subsequent emergence of the ethical complexities surrounding it. The movie is best suited for classes such as biology, chemistry, bio-chem, genetics, ethics, or sociology.

The guide is four pages of higher-order thinking questions designed to last three days of class. Concepts mentioned include genetic engineering, bioethics, ethics, social values, social views, social stereotypes, discrimination, workplace ethics, eugenics, ability vs limitations, social profiling, genetic screening, privacy laws, designer babies, risk-based assessments, and genetic therapies.
The total runtime is 1:46, meant to be shown over a three-day period. Each day of viewing is 34-35 minutes long, giving ample time to answer questions and facilitate meaningful classroom discussion.