Are scientists obligated to consider the ethical issues their work might create? Can scientists conduct research independent of their own humanity?
These issues will be discussed by Wayne State University scientists during a free public forum on Monday, March 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Barth Hall at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 4800 Woodward Ave., in Detroit. Titled “Science and Ethical Responsibility,” the forum will explore the relationship between science and ethics including medical, sociological, environmental and biological fields of study. For further information, call 313-831-5000.
“As a university that is at the forefront of scientific enterprise, Wayne State has an obligation to explore issues of ethics and morality as a service to the public,” noted WSU physics professor Alvin M. Saperstein who serves as president of the Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society, which is co-sponsoring the event with the Cathedral Church of St. Paul.
Saperstein cited such issues as advances in human reproduction that might lead to cloning; the development of weaponry to improve national security; and global warming as likely topics for the discussion. The Reverend Stephen H. Bancroft, dean of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, will moderate the discussion between Saperstein and reputed WSU scientists Christian W. Kreipke and William S. Moore.
Scientific research expenditures in the 21st century have reached all-time highs, fueling the debate surrounding the ethical nature of some scientific advancements. In the area of health/medical research alone, it is estimated by Research America that approximately $111 billion per year is spent on research projects that contribute towards the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases and injuries.
Cloning for biomedical research has been a contentious issue that prompted the President’s Council on Bioethics to recommend in 2002 a permanent ban on cloning to produce children and a four-year moratorium on cloning for biomedical research.
The research monies directed towards the development of nuclear weaponry has reached record highs since 1999. During the Cold War (1948-1991), average annual spending for nuclear weapons research, development, testing and production by the Atomic Energy Commission and the Department of Energy (DOE) was $3.64 billion, according to a study highlighted in The Brookings Institution Web site. The DOE estimates that average annual spending from 1999-2008 will be $4.5 billion (in unadjusted dollars).