Consanguinity in Context (Cambridge Studies in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology) [Hardcover]

Alan H. Bittles (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 29, 2012 | ISBN-10: 0521781868 | ISBN-13: 978-0521781862 | Edition: 1

An essential guide to this major contemporary issue, Consanguinity in Context is a uniquely comprehensive account of intra-familial marriage. Detailed information on past and present religious, social and legal practices and prohibitions is presented as a backdrop to the preferences and beliefs of the 1100+ million people in consanguineous unions. Chapters on population genetics, and the role of consanguinity in reproductive behavior and genetic variation, set the scene for critical analyses of the influence of consanguinity on health in the early years of life. The discussion on consanguinity and disorders of adulthood is the first review of its kind and is particularly relevant given the ageing of the global population. Incest is treated as a separate issue, with historical and present-day examples examined. The final three chapters deal in detail with practical issues, including genetic testing, education and counseling, national and international legislation and imperatives, and the future of consanguineous marriage worldwide.

Editorial Reviews

Book Description

Consanguinity in Context will appeal to a wide readership, from clinicians and geneticists to anthropologists and social scientists. Written in an approachable manner, with excellent illustrations and relevant background information, this book is the essential guide to the controversial medical and social issue of intra-familial marriage.

About the Author

Alan H. Bittles is Research Leader at the Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University and Adjunct Professor of Community Genetics at Edith Cowan University, Australia.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 328 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press; 1 edition (June 29, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521781868
• ISBN-13: 978-0521781862
• Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.8 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,059,762 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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