[Two-part Question] Researching family history

In some parts of the world it is becoming popular to research the history of one’s own family. Why might people want to do this? Is it a positive or negative development?

Nowadays, conducting research into one’s family history is becoming increasingly prevalent in several countries. There are a number of causes for this development and I believe that it is ultimately beneficial for people who choose to do this. 

For one, it is becoming more economical to conduct this type of research, so many choose to do so for trivial purposes. The majority of genealogical tests are now affordable, ranging from $100 to $300, and most only require users to send in a hair or skin sample. Within a week’s time, information regarding their racial composition is sent to them, which can provide them with interesting insights on their family origin. Furthermore, many choose to do it for medical aims in search of hereditary diseases such as cancer, diabetes and other forms of allergies. With this information, these individuals can make changes to their diet and lifestyle early in life to preemptively prevent them. 

Regardless of one’s reasons for conducting such research, they may prove disadvantageous. Companies providing gene testing can collect one’s personal information, such as data on their diet and substance use, which can then be sold to advertising firms to create targeted advertisements for these individuals. However, the advantages of family research are more overwhelming, as many can potentially find long lost family members through the databases of these companies from matching DNA of existing users. This would provide a great help for orphans and those who were separated from their family due to warfare. Moreover, information regarding hereditary diseases can help doctors devise preventive measures to help patients with a cancer or diabetic background. 

In conclusion, many people are looking into the history of their family because DNA testing is becoming more accessible and it might provide insight into one’s health background. While this development can be negative to a certain degree, I strongly believe that it is overall beneficial.