They agreed that the expression of behavioral traits--phenotypes in the parlance--cannot be directly predicted by genetic composition.
"Individual life experiences of an individual are a significant component of what makes us us," said Eaves, suggesting the influence of the environment on behavior should not be underestimated.
In a question-and-answer session, Philip Reilly, a member of the National Commission on the Future of DNA Evidence, asked the panelists their views on the use of the genetic samples of convicted felons in scientific testing.
Watson said he whole-heartedly approved the study of these samples as a means of furthering understanding of the genetic mechanisms behind behavior.
"If you find the cause [for felons' violent behavior], you might be able to help them," Watson said.
The other panelists were more hesitant about supporting such research because of the social and legal implications.
"The problem is how to control the use of that information in a legal setting and its potential prejudicial nature in non-scientific settings," said Billings.
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