Your Genes Say No

Abstract

This case study follows William, a young man genetically predisposed to Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), whose life is constrained not by illness, but by predictive data. Despite never developing T1D, William is denied career paths, burdened with higher insurance premiums, and subjected to employment discrimination due to algorithmic decisions based on his genome. The scenario unfolds in a near-future United States where affordable, state-mandated genetic testing and AI-driven health analytics shape policy, education, insurance, and employment. Although laws nominally prohibit genetic discrimination, enforcement is inconsistent, and private companies exploit loopholes. The case interrogates themes of equality, accountability, and dehumanization, raising pressing questions about genetic determinism, algorithmic bias, and data ethics. As AI models grow increasingly powerful in interpreting genetic trends, the story warns against equating probability with destiny. It calls for policy frameworks that protect individuals from predictive prejudice, preserve human agency, and maintain ethical oversight over genetic and AI technologies. William’s journey reminds us that humans are more than their data—our future should be informed by science, not defined by it.