Introduction

Abstract We encounter uncertainty daily in much of our thinking and planning and in many of our activities. How we respond to uncertainties can produce satisfying results or provoke frustration and anxiety. Uncertainty underlies and stimulates all scientific investigation, so in this sense progress in knowledge and technology is dependent on addressing questions that lack clear answers. Sequencing the human genome is an example of how uncertainty about the most fundamental characteristic of our existence occurred. Precision in health care requires applying new methodologies while recognizing the nature of the uncertainties that persist in the results. Furthermore, uncertainties are fluid and vary over time, the result of research that seeks to mitigate their impacts.