title: Knowledge, power, man and justice: ethical problems in biomedical research.
abstract: This essay attempts to raise some ethical problems related to biomedical research as they revolve around the issues of knowledge, power, man and justice. The arguments connected with such matters will not provide answers, but rather soundings for unchartered waters. Much more can and needs to be developed about the nature of knowledge and the politics of its use and abuse. A more detailed analysis and critique of man's nature might be engaged in to determine many concerns, not least of which is whether we can even talk about human nature. The idea of justice is elusive at the best of times and is particularly complicated at a time in history when social and economic interpretation is so complex. Much more must be debated before we can produce a detailed map. Fundamental to all of this, though, hopefully will be a dialogue among the many disciplines concerned with human research. We can not afford to work in isolation. The consequences of our decisions are too great.
mesh_terms: D026688:Bioethical Issues; D035843:Biomedical Research; D002170:Canada; D004989:Ethics; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D040821:Human Characteristics; D006806:Human Rights; D006801:Humans; D007603:Jurisprudence; D012106:Research