DNA fingerprinting is one of the best ways to solve questions of human identity, according to Family Helix . Everyone has a particular DNA structure, which is as unique as an actual fingerprint and can have amazing accuracy. However, issues concerning the pros and cons of DNA fingerprinting have been argued about for some time.
Defining DNA Fingerprinting
DNA fingerprinting is also known as genetic fingerprinting and can pinpoint a person's unique DNA structure. DNA genetic fingerprinting is an identifying method popularly used in forensics, medicine and paternity testing, according to Family Helix.
Pros of DNA Fingerprinting
Having DNA on file could help solve crimes without any doubt and likewise set innocent people free. DNA fingerprinting also enables people to prevent disease through medical intervention and lifestyle changes and gives the chance for people to prepare for possible illnesses.
People fighting in favor of DNA fingerprinting argue that matching fingerprints by sight involves judgment, skill, and training. Although it is extremely reliable when done properly, there has to be error of margin associated with analyzing fingerprints by sight. Based on these accusations, DNA fingerprinting should be more accurate.
Cons of DNA Fingerprinting
There are many ethical issues concerning DNA fingerprinting. DNA is a blueprint of the make-up of one's body, and whether or not it is fair to keep such sensitive material on file has been debated.
Discrimination could occur in many forms. People may be rejected from certain health care if his DNA reveals something about him or a minority may be discriminated against if people who are closely associated with his DNA are more frequently in trouble with the law.
Another issue at hand is consent. It should be an individual's choice to undergo genetic fingerprinting. If a child has his DNA fingerprinted during his youth, he may not want such information on file once he is an adult.
DNA fingerprinting is not necessary in the minds of many who think basic fingerprinting works with great accuracy. Joseph Polski, chief operations officer for the International Association for Identification, was quoted in the Washington Post as saying, "experts are highly accurate at comparing ridge endings, bifurcations and intervening ridges between two sets of fingerprints and determining whether they match."
How Accurate is Basic Fingerprinting?
There are no reports on the actual margin of error in fingerprinting. Those for DNA fingerprinting believe there is a lot of unreported error, whereas experts in fingerprinting claim there isn't much error. The only way to know which case is factual is to see a study done on the actual margin or error, however, no case study has been completed.
How Accurate is DNA Fingerprinting?
The same issue with accuracy can be brought to light with DNA testing. According to Family Helix, the accuracy of DNA testing is dependent on the competency of people in the labs.
While margin of error is still a factor in DNA fingerprinting, one must study which method, basic fingerprinting or DNA fingerprinting, holds the least margin of error.
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