Question 1

The Importance of DNA's Structure

Accepted Answer

The discovery of the double helix was revolutionary because it explained how genetic information is stored and transmitted. The structure of DNA, with its base pairs (adenine with thymine, and guanine with cytosine) forming the rungs of the ladder, provided a mechanism for precise replication. This understanding was crucial for comprehending how genes work, how mutations occur, and how genetic information is inherited. The double helix also provided a framework for understanding how genes are expressed and how proteins are made.

Question 2

The Controversial Path to Discovery

Accepted Answer

The path to the double helix was not without controversy. Watson and Crick relied on data from Rosalind Franklin's X-ray crystallography work without fully acknowledging her contribution. Franklin's data was critical to the construction of their model, and the lack of proper attribution has been a source of ethical debate. Furthermore, Watson's memoir, "The Double Helix," offered a candid portrayal of the scientific process, revealing the ambition and competition inherent in the pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries.

Question 3

The Human Genome Project: Mapping the Code of Life

Accepted Answer

Watson's involvement in the Human Genome Project further solidified his legacy. As one of the project's key figures, he championed the idea of making the human genome sequence publicly available, believing that this information should be accessible to all. This decision was a critical step in accelerating the pace of genetic research and making it more accessible to the scientific community. The Human Genome Project enabled researchers to identify genes associated with various diseases, paving the way for new diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions. The project's success demonstrated the power of collaborative research and its potential to benefit humanity.

Question 4

Watson's Views on Race and Genetics: A Darker Side

Accepted Answer

Despite his scientific achievements, Watson's later years were marred by controversial statements on race and genetics. His comments, which suggested a link between race and intelligence, drew widespread criticism and led to his ostracization by the scientific establishment. These views, rooted in long-discredited racist theories, contradicted the scientific consensus and caused significant damage to his reputation. The controversy surrounding his comments overshadowed his contributions to science and raised questions about the ethics of scientific inquiry.

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