Dna jako kod kulturowy
DNA as a cultural code

Summary/Abstract: Science has always fascinated artists and many inventions and discoveries have become a source of artistic inspiration. Also, genetics and the deoxyribonucleic acid molecule (€[), represented by the double helix model, inspires visual arts and becomes a leitmotiv for artistic creativity, an object of art and even an artistic technique. Thus, the aim of the present paper is to describe cultural representations of deoxyribonucleic acid in painting, sculpture, architecture, cinema, music and functional art. It expresses the three main forms by which €[ is represented in modern art, such as: an icon, an index and a symbol. Nevertheless, €[ is also used by artists as a unique crafting tool and an artistic technique that can be observed in bioart. Another example of cultural presence of €[ is common speech, where it is one of the most popular metaphors frequently used in marketing, economic consulting, urban planning, sport and advertising. The paper argues that €[ is not only a biological code but a cultural one as well. It is a symbol of modern science and a cultural icon. And it is due to the fact that this ‘molecule of life’ is immensely rich in cultural meanings: it is associated with uniqueness, beauty and casual power. It is the essence of life and the source of immortality. At the same time, €[ enables to propagate new explanations of social ideas on human nature, heredity, destiny, the origins of life, identity, morality and the organization of society.

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