GENETHICS (or ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND THE ‘NEW GENETICS’)

The Human Genome Project and its emerging impact on molecular genetic techniques inspire our minds to think of applications that, on the one hand, are extremely exciting and intriguing, but on the other, conjure up images that inspire fear and trepidation. Applications resulting in genetic testing (when and who), gene therapy and cloning and reproductive techniques will potentially do much to reduce the impact of human diseases and improve the quality of life of nearly all our community. However, many contentious issues arise from how these applications should be implemented and other perceived uses of this technology. Some of these issues will involve both health and life insurance and many legal factors may also need consideration.

Many feel that it is the scientific community that has the responsibility to provide up to date and accurate information as to the great benefits that its technology may deliver, yet deal with these moral questions that arise. However, these decisions will best be made when discussed by the community as a whole, encompassing the opinions of all who will be affected by the technology. That is virtually every member of our community, who will face decisions concerning their own health or that of others in their family. As a society we have a responsibility to approve the great benefits this new technology may provide, but not at any cost. One of the major objectives of the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute Ethics and Education Units is to provide a forum or platform to facilitate a high quality and informed debate of these issues.

In this section we aim to provide you with a framework of ethical principles that can be applied when looking at issues associated with the new genetics as well as initiate thought and discussion on specific applications.

Ethical Principles and the ‘New Genetics’

What is NEW About Genetics?

by Professor Bob Williamson,

Director of the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute

'Ethical Issues in Genetic Research' - an introduction for members of Australian Human Research Ethics Committees

by M Parker, R Williamson, J Savulescu

Abstracts of recent papers on ethics and genetics from Australia and overseas