title: Direct to consumer genetic testing and the libertarian right to test.
abstract: I sketch a libertarian argument for the right to test in the context of 'direct to consumer' (DTC) genetic testing. A libertarian right to genetic tests, as defined here, relies on the idea of a moral right to self-ownership. I show how a libertarian right to test can be inferred from this general libertarian premise, at least as a prima facie right, shifting the burden of justification on regulators. I distinguish this distinctively libertarian position from some arguments based on considerations of utility or autonomy, which are sometimes labelled 'libertarian' because they oppose a tight regulation of the direct to consumer genetic testing sector. If one takes the libertarian right to test as a starting point, the whole discussion concerning autonomy and personal utility may be sidestepped. Finally, I briefly consider some considerations that justify the regulation of the DTC genetic testing market, compatible with the recognition of a prima facie right to test.
authors.forename: Michele
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Loi
mesh_terms: D022126:Access to Information / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D003256:Community Participation; D003210:Concept Formation; D000067108:Direct-To-Consumer Screening and Testing / Q000941:ethics; D005610:Freedom; D036281:Genetic Research / Q000941:ethics*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000941:ethics; D006801:Humans; D010067:Ownership / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011050:Policy Making; D014342:Truth Disclosure
keywords: Genetic Screening/Testing; Ownership; Political Philosophy; Predictive Genetic Testing; Rights