Posted by Willful on November 29, 2010, at 22:39:52
In reply to JAMA-.will never be a drug that 'cures' depression, posted by violette on November 28, 2010, at 20:57:52
From what I read here, the actual study says that there is no depression "gene." Or, more precisely, no single depression gene, or series of such genes, has yet been found `~except~ one, which is relatively weak.
Everything else in the piece quoted above is the blogger's personal opinion. which he has been advocating for a long time-- ie since before this study was done.
Now, first of all, there are many studies, often with contradictory claims and results. So there is no certainty that others studies do not or will not exist that "prove" just the contrary.
Second, and more importantly, no one of any real scientific credibility has really claimed that there's one depression gene.
There may be many genes which singly or in combination could either cause or greatly predispose someone to depression--
and, it's entirely possible that these genes have not yet been discovered, and that this weakly predisposing gene will be but one among many.
Furthermore, just because something is not caused by a gene, or is caused by a gene interacting with social or interpersonal forces, does not mean that a biological (ie drug) cure would not be possible. I really see no reason why a drug couldn't greatly affect feelings that were originally caused by interactions or social conditions.
So all in all, I'd say that we just have one individual's personal opinion that depression is caused by environmental factors and that drugs aren't the answer.
It's not a study, and it's not even a logical argument. It's just an opinion in any area where there are many opinions but no clear evidence.. I don't think it changes the debate or gives any closure.
Willful
poster:Willful
thread:971657
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20101117/msgs/971859.html