The document provides an introduction to the field of bioethics including:
- What bioethics is and how it is an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of philosophy, medicine, and science.
- An overview of three bioethics cases involving an AIDS vaccine trial, treatment for a critically ill premature baby, and determining death in a brain-dead pregnant woman.
- Questions are posed about each case to prompt ethical discussion and analysis of the complex issues involved.
For my Capstone Course (Contemporary issues in Organizational Leadership) my group decided to discuss the ethics in regards to medical research and treatment, which has been an ongoing debate in our society.
Concepts and principles of bioethics for the students of health professionsK Raman Sethuraman
Students and many educators have difficulty in differentiating among Legal, Ethical and Moral viewpoints. After explaining these terms, the concept of biomedical ethics, a brief history of its origin in the post-War period and the components of ethics are explained. The final part is on Nursing ethics, attributes of an ethical nurse and ethical challenges faced by the nursing profession.
For my Capstone Course (Contemporary issues in Organizational Leadership) my group decided to discuss the ethics in regards to medical research and treatment, which has been an ongoing debate in our society.
Concepts and principles of bioethics for the students of health professionsK Raman Sethuraman
Students and many educators have difficulty in differentiating among Legal, Ethical and Moral viewpoints. After explaining these terms, the concept of biomedical ethics, a brief history of its origin in the post-War period and the components of ethics are explained. The final part is on Nursing ethics, attributes of an ethical nurse and ethical challenges faced by the nursing profession.
Ethical implication of Human genome project,
International ethical & legal issues connected with human genome diversity research,
Genetic studies of ethnic races.
History of bioethics describes the evolution of medical ethics over centuries and the reasons for introduction of various ethical decelerations and codes.
History,evaluation,principles and players of bioethics its importance why it is prerequisite to follow ,how to resolve a dilemma which arise during a research and to make considerations in such dilemma
Ethical considerations in molecular & biotechnology researchDr Ghaiath Hussein
A lecture presented by Dr. Ghaiath Hussein in University of Khartoum for the students of the MSc programme in Genetics/Molecular Biology.
Session 1 (Introduction): Definition of ethics, bioethics and medical ethics.
What is an ethical issue?
International approaches to medical ethics
Islamic approaches to medical ethics
Ethical issues in biotechnology and related areas.
For soft copy of this document please feel free to contact us on info@biotechsupportbase.com or snjogdand@gmail.com
The Belmont Report (Three Benchmark Rules)ClinosolIndia
The Belmont Report, published in 1979, is a seminal document in the field of research ethics. It was developed by the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research in response to unethical research practices, particularly the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study. The report sets forth three fundamental ethical principles, often referred to as the "Three Benchmark Rules," that guide the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects. These principles are:
Respect for Persons:
The principle of respect for persons emphasizes the autonomy and dignity of individuals. It requires that individuals be treated as autonomous agents capable of making informed decisions about their participation in research. Researchers must obtain informed consent from potential subjects and provide them with all relevant information regarding the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the study. Special provisions must be made for individuals with diminished autonomy, such as children or those with cognitive impairments, to ensure their rights and welfare are protected.
Beneficence:
The principle of beneficence emphasizes the obligation to maximize benefits and minimize harm to research subjects. Researchers must ensure that the potential benefits of the study outweigh the potential risks. They should conduct a thorough risk-benefit analysis and design their studies to maximize potential benefits while minimizing any potential harm or discomfort to participants. Additionally, researchers must make ongoing assessments of the risks and benefits throughout the course of the study and take necessary steps to minimize harm and maximize benefits.
Justice:
The principle of justice requires the fair distribution of the burdens and benefits of research. It emphasizes the need for equal access to participation in research, regardless of factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other characteristics. Researchers must ensure that the selection of research subjects is fair and avoid exploiting vulnerable populations. Additionally, the benefits derived from research should be distributed equitably, ensuring that the burdens of research are not borne solely by disadvantaged groups while the benefits accrue to others.
These Three Benchmark Rules provided in the Belmont Report serve as the foundation for modern ethical guidelines and regulations governing research involving human subjects. They have significantly influenced the development of ethical review boards and informed consent processes, ensuring the protection of individuals' rights and well-being in research studies.
ENC 1101Assignment 2Topic Selection Genetics 1. Use the .docxchristinemaritza
ENC 1101
Assignment: 2
Topic Selection: Genetics
1. Use the two articles provided
a. Is it OK to make babies from 3 parents' DNA?
b. Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
2. Please include two sources from the library or the library databases
Research/Source Evaluation Paper:
A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. Source Evaluation is needed to scrutinize and analyze the given sources on their substance and academic validity.
Assignment:
Students will submit an outline and compose a three-page (research/evaluation) paper.
Instructions:
Make sure that your paper has:
•
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first portion of the paper.
•
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
•
Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
•
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).
•
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.
Due Date:
Your three-page paper is due March 15. When typing your paper, please be sure to double-space and to use the standard 12-point font in either Times New Roman or Calibri. Follow MLA research guidelines. Be sure to also include a Works Cited.
Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
By WakingTimes January 22, 2013
Aaron Jackson, Guest Writer
Waking Times
Genetically screening our offspring to make them better people is just “responsible parenting”, claims an eminent Oxford academic, The Telegraph reports.
Professor Julian Savulescu, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics, said that creating so-called designer babies could be considered a “moral obligation” as it makes them grow up into “ethically better children”, this based on a few genetic links to ‘personality disorders’.
He said that we should actively give parents the choice to screen out personality flaws in their children as it meant they were then less likely to “harm themselves and others”.
Studies show that the child’s upbringing, including parenthood and schooling methods are the root causes of many ‘personality flaws’. Other studies give strong evidence that nutrition, meditation and exercise greatly influence behavioural patterns and emotional well-being. This entire theory is also blind to the side effects of many medicines, vaccines, food additives and (some) GMO foods that have been proven to affect psychological behaviour, and this isn’t even touching on the possible beneficial use of marijuana and other substances for those with undesired personality traits.
“Surely trying to ensure that your children have the best, or a good enough, opportunity for a great life is responsible parenting?” wrote Prof Savulescu, the Uehiro Professor in practical ethics.
Ethical implication of Human genome project,
International ethical & legal issues connected with human genome diversity research,
Genetic studies of ethnic races.
History of bioethics describes the evolution of medical ethics over centuries and the reasons for introduction of various ethical decelerations and codes.
History,evaluation,principles and players of bioethics its importance why it is prerequisite to follow ,how to resolve a dilemma which arise during a research and to make considerations in such dilemma
Ethical considerations in molecular & biotechnology researchDr Ghaiath Hussein
A lecture presented by Dr. Ghaiath Hussein in University of Khartoum for the students of the MSc programme in Genetics/Molecular Biology.
Session 1 (Introduction): Definition of ethics, bioethics and medical ethics.
What is an ethical issue?
International approaches to medical ethics
Islamic approaches to medical ethics
Ethical issues in biotechnology and related areas.
For soft copy of this document please feel free to contact us on info@biotechsupportbase.com or snjogdand@gmail.com
The Belmont Report (Three Benchmark Rules)ClinosolIndia
The Belmont Report, published in 1979, is a seminal document in the field of research ethics. It was developed by the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research in response to unethical research practices, particularly the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study. The report sets forth three fundamental ethical principles, often referred to as the "Three Benchmark Rules," that guide the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects. These principles are:
Respect for Persons:
The principle of respect for persons emphasizes the autonomy and dignity of individuals. It requires that individuals be treated as autonomous agents capable of making informed decisions about their participation in research. Researchers must obtain informed consent from potential subjects and provide them with all relevant information regarding the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the study. Special provisions must be made for individuals with diminished autonomy, such as children or those with cognitive impairments, to ensure their rights and welfare are protected.
Beneficence:
The principle of beneficence emphasizes the obligation to maximize benefits and minimize harm to research subjects. Researchers must ensure that the potential benefits of the study outweigh the potential risks. They should conduct a thorough risk-benefit analysis and design their studies to maximize potential benefits while minimizing any potential harm or discomfort to participants. Additionally, researchers must make ongoing assessments of the risks and benefits throughout the course of the study and take necessary steps to minimize harm and maximize benefits.
Justice:
The principle of justice requires the fair distribution of the burdens and benefits of research. It emphasizes the need for equal access to participation in research, regardless of factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other characteristics. Researchers must ensure that the selection of research subjects is fair and avoid exploiting vulnerable populations. Additionally, the benefits derived from research should be distributed equitably, ensuring that the burdens of research are not borne solely by disadvantaged groups while the benefits accrue to others.
These Three Benchmark Rules provided in the Belmont Report serve as the foundation for modern ethical guidelines and regulations governing research involving human subjects. They have significantly influenced the development of ethical review boards and informed consent processes, ensuring the protection of individuals' rights and well-being in research studies.
ENC 1101Assignment 2Topic Selection Genetics 1. Use the .docxchristinemaritza
ENC 1101
Assignment: 2
Topic Selection: Genetics
1. Use the two articles provided
a. Is it OK to make babies from 3 parents' DNA?
b. Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
2. Please include two sources from the library or the library databases
Research/Source Evaluation Paper:
A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. Source Evaluation is needed to scrutinize and analyze the given sources on their substance and academic validity.
Assignment:
Students will submit an outline and compose a three-page (research/evaluation) paper.
Instructions:
Make sure that your paper has:
•
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first portion of the paper.
•
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
•
Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
•
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).
•
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.
Due Date:
Your three-page paper is due March 15. When typing your paper, please be sure to double-space and to use the standard 12-point font in either Times New Roman or Calibri. Follow MLA research guidelines. Be sure to also include a Works Cited.
Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
By WakingTimes January 22, 2013
Aaron Jackson, Guest Writer
Waking Times
Genetically screening our offspring to make them better people is just “responsible parenting”, claims an eminent Oxford academic, The Telegraph reports.
Professor Julian Savulescu, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics, said that creating so-called designer babies could be considered a “moral obligation” as it makes them grow up into “ethically better children”, this based on a few genetic links to ‘personality disorders’.
He said that we should actively give parents the choice to screen out personality flaws in their children as it meant they were then less likely to “harm themselves and others”.
Studies show that the child’s upbringing, including parenthood and schooling methods are the root causes of many ‘personality flaws’. Other studies give strong evidence that nutrition, meditation and exercise greatly influence behavioural patterns and emotional well-being. This entire theory is also blind to the side effects of many medicines, vaccines, food additives and (some) GMO foods that have been proven to affect psychological behaviour, and this isn’t even touching on the possible beneficial use of marijuana and other substances for those with undesired personality traits.
“Surely trying to ensure that your children have the best, or a good enough, opportunity for a great life is responsible parenting?” wrote Prof Savulescu, the Uehiro Professor in practical ethics.
ENC 1101Assignment 2Topic Selection Genetics 1. Use the .docxgidmanmary
ENC 1101
Assignment: 2
Topic Selection: Genetics
1. Use the two articles provided
a. Is it OK to make babies from 3 parents' DNA?
b. Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
2. Please include two sources from the library or the library databases
Research/Source Evaluation Paper:
A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. Source Evaluation is needed to scrutinize and analyze the given sources on their substance and academic validity.
Assignment:
Students will submit an outline and compose a three-page (research/evaluation) paper.
Instructions:
Make sure that your paper has:
•
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first portion of the paper.
•
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
•
Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
•
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).
•
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.
Due Date:
Your three-page paper is due March 15. When typing your paper, please be sure to double-space and to use the standard 12-point font in either Times New Roman or Calibri. Follow MLA research guidelines. Be sure to also include a Works Cited.
Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
By WakingTimes January 22, 2013
Aaron Jackson, Guest Writer
Waking Times
Genetically screening our offspring to make them better people is just “responsible parenting”, claims an eminent Oxford academic, The Telegraph reports.
Professor Julian Savulescu, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics, said that creating so-called designer babies could be considered a “moral obligation” as it makes them grow up into “ethically better children”, this based on a few genetic links to ‘personality disorders’.
He said that we should actively give parents the choice to screen out personality flaws in their children as it meant they were then less likely to “harm themselves and others”.
Studies show that the child’s upbringing, including parenthood and schooling methods are the root causes of many ‘personality flaws’. Other studies give strong evidence that nutrition, meditation and exercise greatly influence behavioural patterns and emotional well-being. This entire theory is also blind to the side effects of many medicines, vaccines, food additives and (some) GMO foods that have been proven to affect psychological behaviour, and this isn’t even touching on the possible beneficial use of marijuana and other substances for those with undesired personality traits.
“Surely trying to ensure that your children have the best, or a good enough, opportunity for a great life is responsible parenting?” wrote Prof Savulescu, the Uehiro Professor in practical ethics ...
A Higher Education Academy STEM event "Teaching Bioethics:Ethical aspects of innovations in biomedicine" took place at the University of Leicester (UK) in May 2012. In this keynote presentation, Anna Smajdor (University of East Anglia) led reflections on the implications of recent developments in fertility technology.
Since In vitro fertilisation was first introduced in 1978, the potential applications have developed in ways that were not initially envisaged and we have ended up with complications defining “father” and “mother”. Similarly, who is the “patient” when a woman receives medical treatment to deal with the infertility of her partner (and why is this considered a “medical” treatment at all? Development of new technologies has moved way beyond the original expectation that IVF would be used in the context of a traditional family.
New reproductive technologies, she argued, have blurred and stretched the obvious biological definitions of reproduction. For example, single mothers, same-sex couples and women beyond the menopause can all become parents. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis and the notion of saviour siblings allow for a certain degree of selection regarding the characteristics of the future child and we now stand on the brink of gametogenesis where it will be feasible to develop artificial gametes outside of the body.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
First Successful IVF: Birth of Louise Brown in 1978
Rapid developments in the field of ART
Moral panic
Ethics
Ethical issues
Ethical concerns
Moral issues
Social issues
Religion
Case study
‘Artificial Womb’ For Human Children Is A Topic Of Discussion Among FDA Advis...The Lifesciences Magazine
The US Food and Drug Administration’s independent advisors are meeting this week to explore the rules, morals, and potential for developing an artificial womb to improve the chances that extremely premature newborns will survive—and without developing long-term health issues.
Patient Voices Network Forum: Consumer Health 2.0 HandoutDaniel Hooker
"Consumer Health 2.0: Using social media to find and share health information." A handout of supplemental information and activities to support the presentation given to the Patient Voices Network Forum, "Voices in Action" on April 16, 2011.
Ethical issues in medicine and research:Special reference to IndiaJishnu Lalu
A detailed discussion on Ethical consideration concerning physician, patient, co-workers and research. It also discusses publication ethics and Ethics in India
430 Chapter 17 Death and DyingCase 17-1When Parents Refu.docxblondellchancy
430 Chapter 17 Death and Dying
Case 17-1
When Parents Refuse to Give Up1
Nine-year-old Yusef Camp began experiencing symptoms soon after eating a pickle bought
from a street vendor. He felt dizzy and fell down, he could not use his legs, and he began
to scream. By 10:00 p.m., he was hallucinating and was transported to the DC General
Hospital by ambulance. He went into convulsions. His stomach was pumped, and they
found traces of marijuana and possibly PCP. He soon stopped breathing, and by the next
morning, brain scans showed no activity.
Four months later, Yusef’s condition had not changed. The physicians believed his brain
was not functioning and wanted to pronounce him dead based on brain criteria. Several
difficulties were encountered, however. First, there was some disagreement among the
medical personnel over whether his brain function had ceased completely. Second, at that
time the District of Columbia had no law authorizing death pronouncement based on
brain criteria. It was not clear that physicians could use death as grounds for stopping
treatment. Most important, Ronald Camp, the boy’s father, protested vigorously any sug-
gestion that treatment be stopped. A devout Muslim, he said, “I could walk up and say
unplug him; but for the rest of my life I would be thinking, was I too hasty? Could he have
recovered if I had given it another 6 months or a year? I’m leaving it in Almighty God’s
hand to let it take whatever flow it will.”
The nurses involved in Yusef’s care faced several problems. Maggots were found
growing in Yusef’s lungs and nasal passages. His right foot and ankle became gangre-
nous. He showed no response to noises or painful stimuli. The nurses had the responsi-
bility not only for maintaining the respiratory tract and the gangrenous limb, but also for
providing the intensive nursing care needed to maintain Yusef in debilitated condition
on life support systems. Had the aggressive care been serving any purpose, they would
have been willing to provide it no matter how repulsive the boy’s condition was and in
spite of there being many other patients desperately needing their attention. However,
some of the nurses caring for Yusef were convinced that they were doing no good what-
soever for the boy. They believed they were only consuming enormous amounts of time
and hospital resources in what appeared to be a futile effort. In the process, other
patients were not getting as much care as would certainly be of benefit to them. Could
the nurses or the physicians argue that care should be stopped because he was dead?
Could they overrule the parents’ judgment about the usefulness of the treatment even
if he were not dead? Could they legitimately take into account the welfare of the other
patients and the enormous costs involved when deciding whether to limit their atten-
tion to Yusef?
1Weiser, B. (1980, September 5). Boy, 9, may not be “brain dead,” new medical examiner
shows. Washington Post, ...
Baby-making : what the new reproductive treatments mean for families & society V Somasundram
A book review presentation on Baby-making : what the new reproductive treatments mean for families & society by Bart Fauser & Paul Devroey for H6792, Science & Technology Sources & Services.
Presented by Nurashikin Jasni & V Somasundram on 16 October 2012
Diethylstilbestrol Studies with Ethical ViolationsDES Daughter
1950’s illegal studies that violated the Hippocratic Oath, the Nuremberg Code, and the Declaration of Helsinki.
by Lacey-Clemens Friday, Nicole Skrabacz, Heather Perez
Read http://diethylstilbestrol.co.uk/des-tested-on-pregnant-women-without-consent/
Keynote presentation given at the 9th Conference of the Pan-Pacific Association of Applied Linguistics, Namseoul University, South Korea, August 19-20, 2004
A talk given at BITEC on the occasion of inaugurating a book on "One Century of Science and Thailand's Role", together with Aj. Yongyuth Yutthawong and Aj. Chetana Nagavajara
พิธีเปิดตัว Website และหนังสือ “๑ ศตวรรษวิทยาศาสตร์และบทบาทของไทย”
วันพุธที่ 7 สิงหาคม 2556 เวลา 9.30– 12.00 น.
ณ งานมหกรรมสัปดาห์วิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยีแห่งชาติ ประจำปี 2556
ห้อง 202 ศูนย์ประชุมไบเทค บางนา
How to Create Map Views in the Odoo 17 ERPCeline George
The map views are useful for providing a geographical representation of data. They allow users to visualize and analyze the data in a more intuitive manner.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
How to Split Bills in the Odoo 17 POS ModuleCeline George
Bills have a main role in point of sale procedure. It will help to track sales, handling payments and giving receipts to customers. Bill splitting also has an important role in POS. For example, If some friends come together for dinner and if they want to divide the bill then it is possible by POS bill splitting. This slide will show how to split bills in odoo 17 POS.
We all have good and bad thoughts from time to time and situation to situation. We are bombarded daily with spiraling thoughts(both negative and positive) creating all-consuming feel , making us difficult to manage with associated suffering. Good thoughts are like our Mob Signal (Positive thought) amidst noise(negative thought) in the atmosphere. Negative thoughts like noise outweigh positive thoughts. These thoughts often create unwanted confusion, trouble, stress and frustration in our mind as well as chaos in our physical world. Negative thoughts are also known as “distorted thinking”.
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
1. Introduction to Bioethics
Soraj Hongladarom
Department of Philosophy and
Center for Ethics of Science and Technology
Chulalongkorn University
hsoraj@chula.ac.th
2. Outline
• What is bioethics?
• Discussion of cases
• Is there a way to find a definite solution to
bioethical cases?
• Complexity of the problems
3. What is Bioethics?
• Study of the normative judgments related to
problems of how to decide or how to find the best
course of action in a variety of issues related to
biomedical science.
• Difference between descriptive and normative
studies.
• Bioethics is naturally an interdisciplinary field of
study.
Philosophy, sociology, law, management, literature,
medical and scientific disciplines.
4. What is Ethics?
• Ethics is a branch of philosophy dealing a
series of questions dealing with values:
What makes an action a good one?
How is one to choose a course of action so that
it is a good one?
What is the 'good life'?
What is the meaning of 'good'?
Is there a universal standard of ethical value?
Or are all values relative to different cultures?
5. Ethics and Medicine
• Since medicine deals with the life and death
of people, ethical problems naturally arise.
• Doctors face ethical problems everyday.
• But how well equipped are they to deal with
the issues?
• Basic principles:
Do No Harm. (Non-maleficence)
Do Good (Beneficence)
Be Fair (Justice)
6. Case I: AIDS Vaccine
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) afflicts 38 million people
worldwide. Almost 3 million people died from AIDs in 2003 alone, and over 20
million have died since the epidemic began. A vaccine that could prevent or
slow down the spread of this deadly disease would be a boon to the world.
However, since 1981 when the first cases of AIDS were diagnosed,
researchers have been unsuccessful in their attempts to develop such a
vaccine. The efforts of a company called VaxGen illustrate the complexity of
this task.
VaxGen, which is located in Brisbane, California, developed a vaccine called
AIDSVAX. The vaccine contained synthetic proteins of recombinant gp120, a
protein normally found on the surface of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The
vaccine was designed to induce the immune system to respond to this
noninfectious protein and to produce antibodies that could protect the
recipient from an actual HIV infection. In phase I clinical trials, the vaccine
was tested for safety. Phase II clinical trials included a larger-scale test for
safety as well as a test for the production of antibodies against gp120. As a
result of these trials, AIDSVAX was shown to be safe, and patients receiving
the vaccine did develop antibodies against gp120.From http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/olc_linkedcontent/bioethics_cases/
7. Case I
Phase III clinical trials involved large-scale, placebo-controlled, double-blind tests of
the vaccine’s effectiveness. The first trial began in June of 1998 and involved 5,100
gay men and 300 women, all volunteers, from the United States, Puerto Rico,
Canada, and the Netherlands. The second trial began in March of 1999 and involved
2,500 IV drug abusers from Bangkok, Thailand. Both trials were completed in 2003.
Unfortunately, these trials revealed no difference in the overall rate of HIV infection
between the vaccinated and the unvaccinated participants. The data indicate that
recipients of the vaccine did produce antibodies against gp120, but that those
antibodies were not adequate to protect against HIV infection. (It did appear that
certain subgroups—ethnic minorities other than Hispanic—exhibited a small but
statistically significant lowering of the infection rate, but these results are still being
examined.)
8. Questions
• Why do you think a person would volunteer
to test an AIDS vaccine?
• In the AIDSVAX trials, some people were
given a placebo instead of the vaccine. All
the recipients had been told of this
possibility ahead of time, but they did not
know which substance they were receiving.
Is it ethical to give some of the trial
participants only a placebo?
9. Questions
• If a vaccine being tested works for some
ethnic minorities but not others, do you think
it should be given to just those races or to
everyone?
• Since the antibodies produced in AIDSVAX
recipients were insufficient to protect them
against infection, what might scientists try
next?
10. Questions
• If a private company develops an AIDS
vaccine, it will spend a large amount of
money on development and testing. Should
it offer the vaccine free of charge to people
who cannot afford it, especially those in
very poor countries? How can private
companies afford to develop vaccines if
they do not charge for them?
11. Case II: Critically Ill Newborn Baby
Art and Julia Inskeep's new baby, Joshua, was born premature at 24 weeks of
pregnancy. When they went to see him in the neonatal intensive care unit, they
were not allowed to touch him. He was so small. His feet weren't even as big as a
fingertip.
The doctors don't know what caused Julia to go into premature labor. But when
Joshua was born, they told the Inskeeps that there had been successes in saving
24-week-old babies. With the newest machinery and techniques, the doctors said,
the baby had a good chance of surviving.
Neonatologists, who study newborns, are concerned with outcomes. The more
premature a baby, the worse its outcomes. A normal pregnancy length is 36 weeks,
but babies have survived after being born as early as 23 weeks. The biggest
problem is the lack of a substance called surfactant. This fatty substance coats the
inner surface of the lungs and keeps them from collapsing. During its time in the
uterus, the baby breathes fluid, and its oxygen comes from the mother's blood.
From http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/olc_linkedcontent/bioethics_cases/
12. Case II
A number of advances are helping younger and younger babies survive. One is the
development of a surfactant taken from calf fetuses. Another is a respirator called
an oscillator. Instead of delivering the normal respiration rate of 30 breaths per
minute, the oscillator gives 900 tiny puffs per minute. This keeps the baby's lungs
constantly inflated, and oxygen seems to enter the bloodstream more efficiently.
The procedure, however, can be dangerous. The technology is usually used with
babies who are at least 25 weeks developed; the less developed the baby, the
more likely the occurrence of a brain bleed, which would cause brain damage and
have other serious consequences.
The doctors have asked the Inskeeps to decide whether or not to have Joshua
connected to the oscillator. Art and Julia have never had a more difficult decision.
13. Questions
• What should the Inskeeps do?
• What information do the Inskeeps need to
make the decision? List four things.
• A number of years ago, doctors would make
this decision without consulting the parents.
Give two reasons this might be wrong. Give
two reasons this might be best.
14. Questions
• If the doctors connect Joshua to the oscillator and he
then dies, are there grounds for a malpractice suit?
Why or why not?
• If the doctors don't connect Joshua to the oscillator
and he dies, are there grounds for a malpractice suit?
Why or why not?
• Sometimes next of kin must sign an informed consent
form, by which they acknowledge that the doctor has
told them certain information and that they agree to a
certain procedure or medical plan. Whom does this
protect?
15. Case III: Brain Death
• On October 5, 1992, an 18-year-old
German woman had a fatal road accident
that severely damaged her brain and was in
a comatose condition. However, nobody
knew that she was already about 13 weeks
pregnant, so the doctors told the parents
that they were able to keep the body
functioning for 5 more months until it was
safe to deliver the baby. The doctors asked
for the parents' consent for this.
16. Case III
• The parents at first gave their consent (the
doctors said that they would lose their daughter
if they did not do so), but three days later the
daughter was declared brain dead. The
parents changed their minds and tried to
withdraw the consent, but the doctors said that
letting the body go would kill the baby inside.
• The parents leaked the news to the media and
the story became very popular in Germany.
17. Case III:
• There was a series of national debates on
the issue - “corpse incubators” “gymnastic
for corpses”, etc.
• On November 16, 1992, there was
spontaneous miscarriage. The reason was
unknown because the girl's parents refused
consent for autopsy.
Source: Peter Singer, Rethinking Life and Death: The Collapse of our Traditional
Ethics. New York: St. Martin's, 1994.
18. Questions
• Is a 'brain dead' person actually alive or dead?
• If a brain dead woman happens to carry a fetus
inside, should the doctors keep the body
functioning in order to protect the fetus?
• Who has the authority here? The parents? The
doctors? The state?
• Whose interests come first? The fetus'? The
parents'? The doctors? (or can we talk about the
“interest” of the brain dead person?)
19. Compulsory Licensing
• Article in the New England Journal of
Medicine: “Thailand and the Compulsory
Licensing of Elfavirenz”
http://content.nejm
.org/cgi/content/full/356/6/544
20. Questions
• The Ministry of Public Health made the decision
on compulsory licensing and then they informed
the cabinet. Do you think this is a serious issue?
• Do you think the MoPH should issue CL on other
drugs? Why? Why not?
• Drugs for AIDS patients are clearly very
necessary for them, but what about other kinds of
drugs? There are many other expensive drugs
out there.
21. Questions
• Is it right for the MoPH to issue CL without
consulting the relevant pharma companies who
own the patents?
• Suppose there is an administrative change in
MoPH and there are benefits to be gained from
issuing CL (such as benefits to local drug
manufacturing company), and it then happens
that next batches of CL provide benefits to these
companies. What do you think of this scenario?
22. Questions
• What message does this CL send to local
drug producing companies?
• What are the global implications?
• Where can we find the right balance
between the need for effective public health
measure and the need for protection of
patents and intellectual property rights?