The new genetics, public involvement, and citizens' juries: A welsh case study

This article discusses the first Citizens' July in Wales to focus upon genetic testing for common disorders. Following a brief outline of the citizens' jury model, the paper explores how the effectiveness of the approach can be evaluated using the Welsh example as a case study. This involves an analysis of the symbolic and ritual elements associated with the legal process, which may inadvertently influence perceptions of the integrity of the model. The issue of bias and representativeness in recruitment is then explored in the context of its avowed critical and democratising legitimations. The paper concludes by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the citizens' jury model when applied to a detailed techno-scientific, health and public policy question at a quasi-national level.