Cashing in on your genes

The fashion for genetic testing via the internet is more about using the power of suggestion to turn a profit than about inherited abilities, writes Vivienne Parry.

The sheep of reason

Adam Phillips examines the opposite of madness in Going Sane. Lisa Appignanesi on an inspiring treatment of an elusive subject.

Own tissue breast implant

Stem cells, the progenitors of living tissue, could alter the face of cosmetic surgery, claim scientists today, who report that implants of flesh grown from bone marrow could provide better material for reconstructive surgery following cancer treatment.

We protest

The last time Kate Figes was involved in activism was at Greenham Common. But when she heard that a mobile phone company planned to erect a mast near her children's school, she started dusting off her placards.

Running on faith

Edzard Ernst: Spiritual healing can appear to have a positive effect, but when placebo reigns over rationality, I'm wary.