Scientists' perception of ethical issues in nanomedicine: a case study

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2011

Authors

Helena Silva Costa (Author) Other; Sebastian Sethe (Author) Other; Ana P Pego (Author) FEUP; Anna A S Olsson (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Nanomedicine

Vol. 6 No. 1

Pages: 681-691

ISSN: 1743-5889

Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd.

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 10 Citations

Scopus - 13 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology > Nano-technology

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-QMW

DOI: 10.2217/nnm.11.9

Abstract (EN): Aim: Research and development in nanomedicine has been accompanied by the consideration of ethical issues; however, little is known about how researchers working in this area perceive such issues. This case-study explores scientists' attitude towards and knowledge of ethical issues. Method: Data were collected by semi-structured interviews with 22 nanomedicine practitioners and subject to content analysis. Results: We found that scientists reflect with ambiguity on the reputed novelty of nanomedicine and what the ethical issues and risks are in their work. Respondents see no necessity for a paradigm shift in ethical considerations, but view ethical issues in nanomedicine as overlapping with those of other areas of biomedical research. Most respondents discuss ethical issues they faced in scientific work with their colleagues, but expect benefit from additional information and training on ethics. Conclusion: Our findings that scientists are motivated to reflect on ethical issues in their work, can contribute to the design of new strategies, including training programs, to engage scientists in ethical discussion and stimulate their responsibility as nanomedicine practitioners.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11