Ethical and Philosophical Consideration of the Dual-Use Dilemma in the Biological Sciences

Author/creator Miller, Seumas Author
Other author Selgelid, Michael Author
Format Electronic
Publication InfoNew York : Springer
DescriptionVIII, 76 p. 23.500 x 015.500 cm.
Supplemental ContentFull text available from Ebook Central - Academic Complete
Subjects

Summary Annotation The dual-use dilemma arises in the context of research in the biological and other sciences as a consequence of the fact that one and the same piece of scientific research sometimes has the potential to be used for harmful as well as good purposes. Discoveries that may lead to important advances in science and medicine might therefore also facilitate development of biological weapons of mass destruction. Scientists should be aware of the ways in which their well-intentioned research could be misused by others - and they should sometimes avoid research projects when the potential for harmful misuse is great. Policy makers must make tough choices about the extent to which the dual-use nature of research might justify increased oversight, regulation, and perhaps even censorship of science.This book examines the kinds of life-science experiments that give rise to the dual-use dilemma and provides philosophical analysis of the ethical issues and policy options surrounding dual-use research. Though the dual-use dilemma is an ethical issue, the vast majority of literature on the topic thus far has been written by scientists and security experts: this is the first book-length treatment of the topic by professional ethicists. It also challenges, and offers an alternative perspective to, the hugely influential U.S. National Research Council position on the dual-use dilemma.
Access restrictionAvailable only to authorized users.
Technical detailsMode of access: World Wide Web
Genre/formElectronic books.
LCCN 2008928679
ISBN9781402083112
ISBN1402083114 (Trade Paper) Active Record
Standard identifier# 9781402083112
Stock number1402083114 00024965

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