This project will first identify and analyze a series of specific ethical concerns or questions that have, or will arise as a consequence of the HGP, including genetic screening and diagnosing genetic disorders or predispositions, privacy, ownership, and security of HGP data, and genetic variations within and between groups. These concerns will be analyzed in the context of morally relevant variables that emerge from the application of a formal moral theory. Analyses based on the application of other moral theories will be done to control for unintentional biases.

The ELSI program of the Human Genome Project has successfully calmed the fears of most constituents regarding the potential for a "eugenic" misuse of modern genetic technology. However, one constituency still has major fears regarding the HGP and eugenics. This is the disability rights (DR) community. DR critiques of the HGP are based on a distinct concept of disability from that of mainstream medicine including most supporters of the HGP.

Rapid advancements in genetic technology, the popularity and coverage of genetics by the press, and the increased understanding of the role genetics plays in our health necessitates a basic understanding of the science for everyone. In spite of this increased exposure to genetics, a study by Bowling (2008) indicated that the public's genetics literacy remains relatively low. Studies looking specifically at the genetics knowledge of students in grades K-12 also show low levels of understanding.