Ethics & society talks

The Institute for Practical Ethics and the Faculty Senate have coordinated a yearlong series of events on “Science & Society,” focusing on the broad implications of scientific research. [See Institute makes a practice of ethics.]

This semester, a short course covering “Genetics, Ethics and Society” introduces fundamental topics in biology and medicine and their implications for society. Open to the University community, the five evening lectures are held on Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m. in Wilson Hall 402. The class does not require a background in biology and covers topics from DNA to Darwinism, from infectious disease to ethical issues.

Talks in October and November will cover stem-cell research, the Human Genome Project and DNA, and are listed here. In furthering the multidisciplinary support, some talks are co-sponsored by the Medical Center Hour, the Forum for Contemporary Thought, the Miller Center and Brown College.

Oct. 24 -- Public Bioethics: The Case of Stem-Cell Research
Harold Shapiro, Princeton University and Chair, National Bioethics Advisory Commission
12:30-1:30 p.m., Jordan Conference Center Auditorium

Oct. 31 -- DNA as Icon
Dorothy Nelkin, New York University
12:30-1:30 p.m., Jordan Conference Center Auditorium

Nov. 1 -- Consequences of the Human Genome Project for Medicine and Society
Francis Collins, Director, Human Genome Project, National Institutes of Health
1:30 p.m., Newcomb Hall Theater