Recent studies have suggested that historical trauma, particularly from violence, can lead to epigenetic changes passed down through generations. This has sparked debates on the implications of such findings for policy and societal empathy. Critics point out that while the media may frame these findings as changes to the genome, the actual changes are related to gene expression, not the genes themselves. There are concerns regarding the selective framing of studies and the need for a more nuanced understanding of trauma's impact on families, with some commenters reflecting on personal experiences with trauma and violence. The discussions show a rich landscape of opinions that touch on the potential for empathy to influence policies regarding violence and societal issues.