Studies in Cambridge, MA

After studying Epigenetics, I felt inspired and decided to lead a survey where I would test the publics knowledge on this new up-and-coming inovative study. My motive was to learn how the public would react to the idea of our minds being so essential to our health and if they believed in inheritence, as well as their awareness of the possibility of this study leading to cures for potentially fatal diseases. Over the course of two weeks I led a survey where people from all age groups in Cambridge, MA were asked 6 simple questions, including their age and grade. After 105 participants I decided to conclude the survey and begin to analyze my data. My study’s show that although many were not aware of the term “Epigenetics” it was a common belief that inheritance does happen, the question driven by this conclusion was “Could the environment affect the genetics of a persons grandchildren?” The participants felt that even without prior knowledge or scientific  background, the environment endured by past generations had an affect on future generations. However, when asked “Do you believe our genes can be altered by the environment?” many were not convinced. Studies also showed that many did not believe there were cures for fatal diseases such as Cancer and Schizophrenia. Although theses studies show that the public would welcome the new study with a bit of open mindedness it is hard to tell whether or not these answers embody true opinions on epigenetics and its beliefs because of the lack of knowledge confounding the results.

Here is my survey: https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dDctVElzV05zelo5XzVuSEt6Y2gzVlE6MQ, feel free to take it!