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The time-honored controversy of nature versus nurture, the importance of genes versus the environment in determining human behavior serves as the theme for these nine essays. With the accelerating advances in molecular biology--already more than 40,000 bits of brain genes have been identified through the efforts of the human genome project--research will expose other aspects of genetic determinism. The possibilities of implementing new genetic knowledge to modify human behavior and how such changes may fit within the social context of our culture are discussed and analyzed by a dozen noted professionals from the fields of neurology, psychology, law, sociology, medical humanities, family studies, and genetics. They discuss possible consequences resulting from society's response to the associations between genetics and behavior. Current research directions pursued in the exploration of the gene-environment interactions are explored by several authors. Cautions are voiced concerning possible misuse of behavioral genetic findings in various legal settings; questions are raised about the legitimate uses of new genetic knowledge and the possible social costs of genetic disclosure. Discussions focus on ethical questions relating to gene therapy and screening along with legal interpretations and social consequences of behavioral genetic revelations. For upper-division undergraduates through professionals in the sciences, behavioral studies, philosophy, ethics, sociology, and law. R. A. Hoots; Woodland Community College