On the Brink of Shifting Paradigms, Molecular Systems Engineering Ethics Needs to Take a Proactive Approach

Authors

  • Raheleh Heidari Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Switzerland
  • Bernice S. Elger Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Switzerland
  • Ralf Stutzki NCCR Molecular Systems Engineering, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 80, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland. ralf.stutzki@unibas.ch

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2533/chimia.2016.449

Keywords:

Art of molecule, Ethics, Molecular systems engineering, Proactive ethics, Public engagement, Society

Abstract

Molecular Systems Engineering (MSE) is a paradigm shift in both engineering and life sciences. While the field is still in its infancy the perspectives of MSE in revolutionising technology is promising. MSE will offer a wide range of applications in clinical, biotechnological and engineering fields while simultaneously posing serious questions on the ethical and societal aspects of such technology. The moral and societal aspects of MSE need systematic investigation from scientific and social perspectives. In a democratic setting, the societal outcomes of MSE's cutting-edge technology need to be consulted and influenced by society itself. For this purpose MSE needs inclusive public engagement strategies that bring together the public, ethicists, scientists and policy makers for optimum flow of information that maximizes the impact of public engagement. In this report we present an MSE consortium and its ethics framework for establishing a proactive approach in the study of the ethics of MSE technology.

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Published

2016-06-29

How to Cite

[1]
R. Heidari, B. S. Elger, R. Stutzki, Chimia 2016, 70, 449, DOI: 10.2533/chimia.2016.449.