In this episode, Xavier Bonilla has a dialogue with Bill Sullivan about genes and how they impact various aspects of humanity.  They define genes and DNA and the roles of genes within the environment. They also discuss the complicated dynamics of epigenetics. They talk about the genetics of taste and caffeine and how some genes are implicated in addictions to various substances. They also talk about the genetics of appetite and the gut microbiome, emotional states, and beliefs. They also discuss CRISPR, the ethical landscape of genetics, and many more topics. 

William J. Sullivan is the Showalter Professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology and Microbiology & Immunology at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He has his PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of Pennsylvania and researches genes and some parasites. He is the author of Pleased to Meet me: Genes, Germs, and the Curious Forces That Make Us Who We Are, which can be purchased here. You can find his work on his website. Twitter: @wjsullivan

Get full access to Converging Dialogues at convergingdialogues.substack.com/subscribe