States that, although studies of ethics in technical communication focus on behavior analysis and offer heuristics for deciding ethical dilemmas, interviews with 48 technical communicators reveal little exercise of such analytical processes. Finds that the majority make moral choices on the job through feelings, intuition, and conscience. Opines that ethics might be taught more effectively through a narrative perspective. (PA)

Optometrists face ethical dilemmas daily in the practice of their profession. Students training to become optometrists also face ethical dilemmas, some of which are unique in their role as students. The focus on ethical practice has been heightened by the increasing scope of optometric practice, the greater demand of society for professional accountability, the greater diversity of membership and viewpoints, the decrease in available dollars for health care delivery, and the conflicting roles of ophthalmology and opticianry with optometry. These factors have led to the addition or expansion of professional ethics courses in optometry programs. This paper examines the difficulties inherent in defining professional ethics and designing ethics courses. Curricular issues are examined, including course objectives, instructors, content, evaluation, timetabling, teaching strategies, student assessment, and resource implications. Much of the research in this area has been done in medical education. Although the content of ethical dilemmas encountered by medical students and physicians may not be applicable to optometry, the process by which they learn to approach the dilemmas is the same. PMID:8570164

Ethics education based upon everyday ethical dilemmas can help trainees place themselves within the situation and encourage them to reflect on their role and responsibility in reaching its resolution.• Three elements can help augment the bioethics teaching experience: (a) identifying the ethical dilemma, (b) employing methods of ethical analysis, and(c) having knowledge of additional bioethics resources.An increasing number of bioethics resources are available to clinicians, including clinical ethics consultation (CEC) and print and Web-based resources. PMID:22855929

This article examines the impact of discoveries and methods of neuroscience on marketing practices as they relate to the exercise of individual free will. Thus, our focus centers on ethical questions involving consumers' awareness, consent, and understanding to what may be viewed as invasion of their privacy rights. After a brief introduction, the article turns to scientific literature on the brain, followed by discussion of marketing persuasion models. Ethical dilemmas within the free will paradigm and Rawlsian justice developed in moral philosophy are delineated next. The article closes with policy implications and a revised consideration of consumer privacy.

Learning to navigate ethical dilemmas is important in counseling students' training. According to the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (2009 standards, counseling students must receive ethics education. A common goal for counselor educators is to assist students in translating ethical theory into practice. One method traditionally used within counselor education is case examples. A creative way to apply case examples to ethics education is adapting well-known fairy tales into ethical dilemmas. We adapted six fairy tales to address typical ethical and legal dilemmas counseling students may face once in practice. Following each case example is a brief analysis, including corresponding ethical standards from the American Counseling Association Code of Ethics,viewed from a relational-cultural perspective.

Toker A, Salzer L. Pediatric liver transplantation - Ethical dilemmas in a disabled patient. -Pediatr Transplantation 2011. 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Abstract:- Allocation of medical resources, especially resources with absolute scarcity such as organs for transplant, is a difficult task. Medical, surgical, and ethical considerations should be evaluated. In solid organ transplantation, ethics committees are the gate keepers that deal with moral philosophy when moral values are in conflict. Often, no good solution to a dilemma in these medical ethics exists. Our case presents split living liver donation for retransplantation in a mentally disabled girl, with few medical ethics principles at stake.

The needs of today`s advanced societies have moved well beyond the requirements for food and shelter, etc., and now are focused on such concerns as international peace and domestic security, affordable health care, the swift and secure transmission of information, the conservation of resources, and a clean environment. Progress in materials science and engineering is impacting each of these concerns. This paper will present some examples of how this is occurring, and then comment on ethical dilemmas that can arise as a consequence of technological advances. The need for engineers to participate more fully in the development of public policies that help resolve such dilemmas, and so promote the benefits of advancing technology to society, will be discussed.

Animal biotechnology raises moral dilemmas that require collective decisions concerning permitted use of technology. The technological and ethical complexity of biotechnology makes such collective decisions difficult and the lack of shared understanding of the moral implications demands social learn...

The aim of this study was to assess nurses' and physicians' ethical dilemmas in clinical practice. Nurses and physicians of the Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka were surveyed (N=364). A questionnaire was used to identify recent ethical dilemma, primary ethical issue in the situation, satisfaction with the resolution, perceived usefulness of help, and usage of clinical ethics consultations in practice. Recent ethical dilemmas include professional conduct for nurses (8%), and near-the-end-of-life decisions for physicians (27%). The main ethical issue is limiting life-sustaining therapy (nurses 15%, physicians 24%) and euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (nurses 16%, physicians 9%). The types of help available are similar for nurses and physicians: obtaining complete information about the patient (37% vs. 50%) and clarifying ethical issues (31% vs. 39%). Nurses and physicians experience similar ethical dilemmas in clinical practice. The usage of clinical ethics consultations is low. It is recommended that the individual and team consultations should be introduced in Croatian clinical ethics consultations services. PMID:21558110

The American Anthropological Association has recently added number 23 to its series of special online publications. Edited by Joan Cassell and Sue-Ellen Jacobs, this collection of six essays is presented to "stimulate discussion and reflection on ethical issues" among anthropologists. Offerings include a background essay and annotated bibliography, two essays containing fictional ethical dilemmas and proposed solutions, an essay on introducing issues of ethical responsibility into the classroom, and guidelines on holding a workshop on ethical problems in fieldwork.

Much of the discourse on 'beyond the laboratory door' biosecurity to date has focused on the need to raise awareness among the scientific community of the risks posed by the rapid advancement of biotechnology in recent decades. While education is undoubtedly important, a growing body of evidence suggests that ethics education does not necessarily translate into ethical behaviour. This trend has already been reported in clinical settings, where research has highlighted doctors' own reports of ethically dubious practices and challenges when confronted with moral dilemmas in their everyday work. The purpose of this paper is to critically evaluate the practical value of ethics education and show why it is an essential, although insufficient, measure for promoting a culture of responsible conduct of research. We conclude by highlighting the importance of continuing professional development as a way of maintaining life scientists' engagement with biosecurity issues and supporting them in active roles in the effective implementation of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC). PMID:22606762

Children's voices have not often found their way into research. Concerns about their powers of communication, cognitive abilities and the ethical difficulties inherent when working with children have restricted their participation. Objective, empirical evidence suggests that if one engages children in research appropriately they are able to make a significant contribution. However, methodologies that require researchers to adopt a role of passive observer potentially pose ethical dilemmas. When working with children ethical dilemmas can be minimised by taking on the role of a participant adult. The participant adult role for the researcher is entirely congruent with the cognitive and social needs of children to participate meaningfully in research.

Sales career opportunities are growing, and the number of women in sales is increasing. Educators must adequately prepare both men and women for today's ethical sales dilemmas. Using the Personal Selling Ethics Scale, the current study analyzes the impact of idealism and relativism on the sales ethics evaluations of men and women. Results indicate that women evaluate sales ethics scenarios as less ethical than males and that varying positions on these ethical frameworks partially explain the divergence. Results also imply that today's sales educators should primarily emphasize moral idealism when teaching sales ethics. Ethical codes and situation-based frameworks can aid this effort. When teaching relativistic individuals, educators can supplement idealistic methods via the use of cognitive moral development frameworks. (Contains 6 tables.)

Bioethics laws in France have just undergone a revision process. The bioethics debate is often cast in terms of ethical principles and norms resisting emerging social and technological practices. This leads to the expression of confrontational attitudes based on widely differing interpretations of the same principles and values, and ultimately results in a deadlock. In this paper I would like to argue that focusing on values, as opposed to norms and principles, provides an interesting perspective on the evolution of norms. As Joseph Raz has convincingly argued, "life-building" values and practices are closely intertwined. Precisely because values have a more indeterminate meaning than norms, they can be cited as reasons for action by concerned stakeholders, and thus can help us understand how controversial practices, e.g. surrogate motherhood, can be justified. Finally, norms evolve when the interpretations of the relevant values shift and cause a change in the presumptions implicit in the norms. Thus, norms are not a prerequisite of the ethical solution of practical dilemmas, but rather the outcome of the decision-making process itself. Struggling to reach the right decision in controversial clinical ethics situations indirectly causes social and moral values to change and principles to be understood differently. PMID:22477038

The notorious intensification and digitalization of surveillance technologies and practices in today’s society has brought about numerous changes. These changes have been widely noticed, described and discussed across many academic disciplines. However, the contexts of entertainment, play and leisure have not been studied with the same intensity as e.g. policing, civil liberties and social sorting. This paper offers a study of trends in surveillance pleasures, i.e. watching and eavesdropping in popular culture. My focus is the existential aspects and ethical dilemmas of surveillance as portrayed in the movies Rear Window (1954) and The Conversation (1974). I argue that such research as well as studies of the experience of surveillance contributes to our theoretical insights into the ambiguous and ubiquitous phenomenon of surveillance.

This paper derives from a grounded theory study of how Medical Directors working within the UK National Health Service manage the moral quandaries that they encounter as leaders of health care organizations. The reason health care organizations exist is to provide better care for individuals through providing shared resources for groups of people. This creates a paradox at the heart of health care organization, because serving the interests of groups sometimes runs counter to serving the needs of individuals. The paradox presents ethical dilemmas at every level of the organization, from the boardroom to the bedside. Medical Directors experience these organizational ethical dilemmas most acutely by virtue of their position in the organization. As doctors, their professional ethic obliges them to put the interests of individual patients first. As executive directors, their role is to help secure the delivery of services that meet the needs of the whole patient population. What should they do when the interests of groups of patients, and of individual patients, appear to conflict? The first task of an ethical healthcare organization is to secure the trust of patients, and two examples of medical ethical leadership are discussed against this background. These examples suggest that conflict between individual and population needs is integral to health care organization, so dilemmas addressed at one level of the organization inevitably re-emerge in altered form at other levels. Finally, analysis of the ethical activity that Medical Directors have described affords insight into the interpersonal components of ethical skill and knowledge.   

This book introduces key issues in program planning as practiced in business and educational settings. Two chapters in part 1 introduce two foundational models--Lifelong Education Program Planning (LEPP) model and Contingency-Based Program Planning--and provide background on models designed by Houle, Knowles, Boyle, and Nadler. Parts 2-5 focus on the Quadrants of the LEPP model: exercising professional responsibility, engaging relevant contexts, designing the program, and managing administrative aspects. Four chapters in part 2 discuss the following: how program planners can work effectively; planners' roles; articulation of a working philosophy; and ethical dilemmas faced in program planning. Four chapters in part 3 address these topics: how to appraise an organization's external and internal environments; how to seek information about targeted populations; assessment of learning needs; and negotiation of stakeholder interests. Four chapters in part 4 focus on the following: goal setting; program evaluation; models for guiding instructional design; and possible learning formats. Four chapters in part 5 examine the following administrative aspects: recruitment and retention; program promotion and marketing; budgeting; and instructor selection, supervision, evaluation, and development. Appendixes contain a tool for assessing competencies using the LEPP model; a code of ethics for adult educators and program planners; and an index. Contains 152 references. (YLB)

Developing a position on a socio-scientific issue and defending it using a well-reasoned justification involves complex cognitive skills that are challenging to both teach and assess. Our work centers on instructional strategies for fostering critical thinking skills in high school students using bioethical case studies, decision-making frameworks, and structured analysis tools to scaffold student argumentation. In this study, we examined the effects of our teacher professional development and curricular materials on the ability of high school students to analyze a bioethical case study and develop a strong position. We focused on student ability to identify an ethical question, consider stakeholders and their values, incorporate relevant scientific facts and content, address ethical principles, and consider the strengths and weaknesses of alternate solutions. 431 students and 12 teachers participated in a research study using teacher cohorts for comparison purposes. The first cohort received professional development and used the curriculum with their students; the second did not receive professional development until after their participation in the study and did not use the curriculum. In order to assess the acquisition of higher-order justification skills, students were asked to analyze a case study and develop a well-reasoned written position. We evaluated statements using a scoring rubric and found highly significant differences (p<0.001) between students exposed to the curriculum strategies and those who were not. Students also showed highly significant gains (p<0.001) in self-reported interest in science content, ability to analyze socio-scientific issues, awareness of ethical issues, ability to listen to and discuss viewpoints different from their own, and understanding of the relationship between science and society. Our results demonstrate that incorporating ethical dilemmas into the classroom is one strategy for increasing student motivation and engagement with science content, while promoting reasoning and justification skills that help prepare an informed citizenry. PMID:22615814

The ineffectiveness of business ethics education has received attention from the popular press and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business after repeated ethics scandals. One possibility is that teaching ethics is different from other content areas because ethics is best learned when the student does not know it is being taught. This paper examines a teaching technique that could be used in any business class to incorporate ethics education with a significant advantage over current methods. Students learn to recognize ethical dilemmas without prompts and by making bad decisions and suffering the consequences (in class). The results of pre- and posttest measures are reported as well as several advantages of the technique. (Contains 1 table.)

Street has argued that the meta-ethical realist is faced with a dilemma. Either evolutionary forces have had a distorting influenced on our ability to track moral properties or evolutionary forces influenced our beliefs in the direction of tracking moral properties. Street argues that if the realist accepts the first horn of the dilemma, the realist must accept implausible skepticism regarding moral beliefs. If the realist accepts the second horn of the dilemma, the realist owes an explanation of the fitness producing nature of moral beliefs. As Street establishes the dialectic, the anti-realist?s explanation is better. I will argue that Street?s first horn is question begging then I will grasp the second horn of the dilemma and argue that only the realist can explain the role of moral bel...

Abstract in spanish En esta ponencia se examinan algunas especificidades de la investigación antropológica en instituciones hospitalarias, a partir de la experiencia de trabajo de campo en hospitales de Ciudad de Buenos Aires y conurbano bonaerense. Focalizamos por un lado, en los requisitos institucionales que posibilitan el acceso al hospital como lugar de estudio y, por otro, en el compromiso emocional y ético del investigador. En cuanto a lo primero, analizamos los problemas que deriv (more) an del enfrentamiento de dos lenguajes y marcos epistémicos de índole diversa - el antropológico y el biomédico- en el proceso de autorización a cargo de los Comité de Ética y de Docencia e Investigación. Respecto a lo segundo, reflexionamos sobre algunas situaciones en las cuales el trabajador de campo se enfrenta a problemas éticos, aparentemente, dilemáticos. Indagamos acerca de las implicancias y consecuencias metodológicas y por ende teóricas de ambos problemas. Abstract in english In this paper we examine some particularities of anthropological research in hospitality institutions, on the basis of fieldwork carries out in hospitals of the Metropolitan and suburban areas of Buenos Aires. On one side, we focus on the institutional requirements for allowing access to the hospital and, on the other side, on the emotional and ethical commitments of researchers. In what concern to the former, we discuss the problematic arising from procuring authorizatio (more) n from the ethical research Committee of the hospital to conduct a research in these premises. On the other hand, we discuss some ethic problems and dilemmas and we analyze the methodological and theoretical implications of such issues.

Objective: Professionalism, an Accreditation Commission for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competency, embraces the concept of adherence to ethical principles. Despite this, most surgical residencies do not currently include ethics as part of their core curriculum. Further, expertise in effectively managing ethical dilemmas is frequently obtained via modeling after the attending physician. This study evaluated surgical faculty (SF) and residents (SR) on their understanding of basic ethical principles and their overall confidence in translation of these principles into clinical practice. The objective was to determine if there are any differences in the overall levels of knowledge and confidence in ethics between SR and SF. Design and Setting: Immediately before the first session of a K...

Ethics spans all of the medical specialties and is constantly evolving as new medical technologies develop. As PAs become involved in Institutional Ethics Committees (IEC) and related settings, ethics instruction becomes an increasingly important component of their education. Students need the tools to face ethical dilemmas in order to provide the best possible care to their patients across the life span. Furthermore, PAs have a clear role and responsibility in end-of-life and palliative care. Ethics education can be most effective when incorporated into both the preclinical and clinical phases of instruction. There are many ways in which this can be accomplished so that future PAs are equipped with the necessary tools, skills, and information. PMID:22827150

Abstract in spanish Objetivo: Describir situaciones que plantean dilemas éticos propios del ejercicio de la enfermería que influyen en los significados otorgados por los pacientes al cuidado. Metodología: se revisaron los datos obtenidos en entrevistas en profundidad de dos estudios fenomenológicos realizados con 21 participantes adultos que habían estado hospitalizados. Los datos se analizaron según el esquema propuesto por Cohen, Kahan y Steeves. Resultados y discusión: Situaciones (more) de cuidado descritas por los participantes muestran como en decisiones tomadas por los enfermeros desplazan a los pacientes del papel protagónico en el cuidado y cusan rechazo y malestar. Conclusiones: Enfoques de práctica de enfermería basada en decisiones erróneas que no responden a las expectativas de los pacientes requieran de la identificación de dilemas para resolverlos en beneficio de los pacientes y contribuir a la humanización y calidad. Abstract in english Objective: To describe situations involving typical ethical dilemmas in nursing practice that influence patients' meanings about nursing care. Methodology: Data obtained from two phenomenological studies with 21 adults participants who were hospitalized and were interviewed in depth. The analysis was carried out according to the outline proposed by Cohen, Kahan and Steeves. Outcomes and discussion: Participants described situations in which nurses deprived them the protag (more) onist role as they should have in nursing care. This aspect contributed to patient's rejection toward care. Conclusion: Nursing practice focuses based on erroneous decisions that don't comply to patients expectations required identification of dilemmas which must had been solved in a benefical way to patients in order to contribute to humanization and quality.

In this series, the Bulletin aims to explain the role of the Ombuds at CERN by presenting practical examples of misunderstandings that could have been resolved by the Ombuds if he had been contacted earlier. Please note that, in all the situations we present, the names are fictitious and used only to improve clarity.   Taking ethical decisions can often be a dilemma - one that requires recognition and proper representation of multiple pieces of complex information, as well as an intuitive judgment about potential consequences. Pressure is particularly placed on organizational leaders, who are tasked with projects, partnerships and individuals. Constraining forces - be they personal, situational or environmental - can negatively influence any decision by decreasing ethical awareness, ethical sensitivity and ethical judgment. By creating mental compensatory models, the Sensemaking* technique serves to counteract these constraining forces that narrow the search and evaluation of&nbs...

Congress, Black, and Strom-Gottfried cover the gamut of values and ethics issues affecting social work curricula at the BSW and MSW degree levels, as well as those complying with CSWE's 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards. This book's course outlines, interactive learning techniques, technological resources, and extensive bibliography can be applied to virtually any social work course. Its bibliography also features specialty areas new to social work ethics, such as international and rural social work. Resources included account for potential ethical dilemmas concerning practice, law, philosophy, research, conflict resolution, policy advocacy, and work/life balance. Experiential learning opportunities presented in exercises allow students to witness important ethical concepts first-hand, leaving a lasting impression when they become professionals. Regardless of specialization, this book applies to all students' career aspirations--particularly those interested in child welfare, gerontology, health care, and school social work.

This article describes a dilemma based on Muller's experiences working with young children, their teachers, and families. This dilemma will provide the opportunity to apply the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct, with a special emphasis on the impact of culture and beliefs on teaching practice. The 2011 reaffirmation and update of the Code stresses the importance of ensuring cultural consistency between children's homes and early care and education programs. This case highlights circumstances that make maintaining this consistency a challenge due to a conflict between individual children's home beliefs and the beliefs on which the program is based. It calls for consideration of center policies and the best interests of children. Steps for resolving the dilemma are offered.

ETHICAL ISSUES: Caring for cancer patients presents many ethical issues for veterinarians and other veterinary health workers. The issues that most veterinarians think of relate to management of the patient when the owners' preferences for treatment do not appear to be in the animal's best interest, as well as concerns about toxicities and about costs of veterinary services (advanced imaging, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy). While not limited to the veterinary profession, we are more often faced with dilemmas about the appropriateness of palliative care and decisions about euthanasia than our medical colleagues. Equally important are the ethics of not treating patients, and the integration of unproven and alternative strategies into conventional care. A separate ethical issue arises from investigational therapies and research. Less often considered, but nonetheless relevant, are the ethics of suboptimal evaluation (staging) of patients prior to treatment, or of not informing owners about all the options available. CLIENT COMMUNICATION: Ethical veterinary care is intertwined with good client communication. Without good communication, it is impossible, for example, to gain informed consent; and without informed consent, the ethics of cancer treatment are uncertain. GOAL: This article, which draws in part on published research, where stated, and otherwise on the author's personal experiences/opinions and those of veterinary colleagues, is intended to provoke further thought and discussion on the ethics of caring for our cancer patients. PMID:21872793

Genetic testing is increasingly applied for diagnosis and clinical treatment. In some countries, genetic counseling services are provided by professionals with specific training in this discipline, whereas other countries have no teaching programs and counseling is offered by physicians, nurses, pharmacists or biochemists. This counseling raises more and more ethical dilemmas for health professionals at their clinics. The purpose of this study was to analyze the characteristics of Spanish professionals devoted to providing genetic counseling services and to investigate the frequency of the ethical dilemmas they face. Results from 72 survey respondents revealed this counseling is provided by an almost even number of male and female professionals, mostly physicians with many years of profess...

Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate several innovations capable of reforming health care. Despite their promise, many currently unanswered legal, ethical, and financial questions threaten the widespread adoption and use of EHRs. Key legal dilemmas that must be addressed in the near-term pertain to the extent of clinicians' responsibilities for reviewing the entire computer-accessible clinical synopsis from multiple clinicians and institutions, the liabilities posed by overriding clinical decision support warnings and alerts, and mechanisms for clinicians to publically report potential EHR safety issues. Ethical dilemmas that need additional discussion relate to opt-out provisions that exclude patients from electronic record storage, sale of deidentified patient data by EHR vendors, adolescent control of access to their data, and use of electronic data repositories to redesign the nation's health care delivery and payment mechanisms on the basis of statistical analyses. Finally, one overwhelming financial question is who should pay for EHR implementation because most users and current owners of these systems will not receive the majority of benefits. The authors recommend that key stakeholders begin discussing these issues in a national forum. These actions can help identify and prioritize solutions to the key legal, ethical, and financial dilemmas discussed, so that widespread, safe, effective, interoperable EHRs can help transform health care.

Scand J Caring Sci; 2012 The unexpected force of acute stroke leading to patients' sudden death as described by nurses Stroke occurs suddenly and unexpectedly and its consequences can mean the difference between life and death. Research into stroke is extensive but largely focused on patients who survive. The aim of the study was to describe how nurses experience the patient's death and dying, when patients are afflicted by acute stroke and whose lives cannot be saved. The study had a descriptive design with a hermeneutical approach. Interviews were carried out with ten nurses in stroke units at three hospitals. Data were interpreted using hermeneutic textual interpretation based on Gadamer's philosophy. The study shows that sudden death, when unexpected forces intervene in the lives of patients afflicted by acute stroke, was described by the main theme sudden death - the unexpected force and the following three sub-themes: death comes unexpectedly and without warning to the patient; the relatives are at the mercy of the unexpected and the nurses find themselves in demanding situations. The new understanding emphasizes that the unexpected and demanding situations the nurses are put in can be understood as ethical dilemmas and value conflicts because they are not free to give their time to preserving the dying patient's dignity and are not able to give the good care they wish to. A more flexible organization could support the nurses in making use of the creative forces in the unexpected event which an acute stroke that leads to death constitutes. PMID:22612457

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is an essential part of public health programmes. Since M&E is the backbone of public health programmes, ethical considerations are important in their conduct. Some of the key ethical considerations are avoiding conflicts of interest, maintaining independence of judgement, maintaining fairness, transparency, full disclosure, privacy and confidentiality, respect, responsibility, accountability, empowerment and sustainability. There are several ethical frameworks in public health, but none focusing on the monitoring and evaluation process. There is a need to institutionalise the ethical review of M&E proposals. A theoretical framework for ethical considerations is proposed in this paper. This proposed theoretical framework can act as the blueprint for building the capacity of ethics committees to review M&E proposals. A case study is discussed in this context. After thorough field testing, this practical and field-based ethical framework can be widely used by donor agencies, M&E teams, institutional review boards and ethics committees. PMID:23112043

Police surgeons play an important role in the British criminal justice system. Professionally located between the two worlds of medicine and the law, they face ethical dilemmas which derive from the dual nature of their role. The development of the police surgeon service has seen the emergence of three further dualisms within the police surgeon role. These are the forensic-therapeutic divide, the specialist-generalist division, and the issue of dependence or independence with regard to the police. These internal dualisms are discussed and their implications explored. Attention then turns to a consideration of three issues which demonstrate the nature of the ethical dilemmas facing the British police surgeon: the particular articulation of the (police) doctor-patient relationship, the matter of consent, and the subject of confidentiality. Both these ethical issues and the nature of the police surgeon role are explored through the primary analysis of survey and interview data collected from a national sample of police surgeons and police services, and the secondary analysis of key documents on the police surgeon, the paper concludes that specific ethical guidance is needed to address the forensic aspects of the police surgeon role. PMID:8771640

Nel Noddings'"Caring: A Feminine Approach to Ethics and Moral Education" (1984) represents a feminist view of the caring teacher-pupil relationship, focusing on the personal and social setting and speaking directly about the relationship. The works of Maurice Merleau-Ponty contribute a phenomenological perspective which is universal and culturally based and, in describing human relationships, implies a point of view on the teacher-pupil relationship. An exploration of the similarities and differences between these two views yields implications for education, the two parties in the teacher-student relationship, and their shared world. Both points of view relate to the existential interpretation of life and the importance of human relationships. In both, individual choice making constructs the solution to moral dilemmas. Both include concreteness and an emphasis on defining values, forming relationships, and signifying the impact of the individual on an experience. In contrast, while Noddings attends to society, its institutions, and their impact on human relationships, with special emphasis on the educational domain, Merleau-Ponty considers the interaction of culture, universal human tendencies, and the socio-political world. Individuality, the significance of decision making, and freedom appear less clear cut, more complex, and enigmatic than in Noddings' narrative. Noddings' focus is on the teacher-pupil relationship, but with many examples of mother-child rearing. Merleau-Ponty's perspective on intersubjectivity--the connection of all persons historically and culturally--provides a sense of universality to his person-centered philosophy. The Noddings version is directly applicable to American education. Merleau-Ponty's message must be sought, but when discovered, the question of relationships, particularly the teacher-pupil relationship, may best be seen in Merleau-Ponty's vision. However, specific characteristics and outcomes lie with each teacher and student linked in the education event. One seeking to identify the caring teacher-pupil relationship would profit by consulting both models--the personal and particular focus as well as the universal and cultural design. (ND)

The Code of Ethics of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) of the Council for Exceptional Children is a public statement of principles and practice guidelines supported by the mission of DEC. The foundation of this Code is based on sound ethical reasoning related to professional practice with young children with disabilities and their families and with interdisciplinary colleagues. The Code's purpose is to: (1) identify the key principles guiding professional conduct; and (2) provide guidance for practice and personal dilemmas in the conduct of research and practice. The Code is intended to assist professionals in resolving conflicts as they arise in practice with children and families and with other colleagues. The following principles and guidelines for practice include: (I) Professional Practice; (II) Professional Development and Preparation; (III) Responsive Family Practices; and (IV) Ethical and Evidence Based Practices.

As educators, we grapple with a myriad of dilemmas and often have difficulty resolving issues that relate to curriculum and instruction, funding, facilities and supervision, to name a few. Depending on the leader(s), a variety of ethics come in to play when making decisions. The ethic of connectedness refers to community building and welfare as central to moral thought and practice (Bradley, 2007). Responsibility to community building and welfare begins in the schools and must be an acculturated practice within the schools so future generations possess the knowledge, skills and dispositions that ensure a connectedness to their society (Marzano et al., 2005; Barth 2006; Collinson et al., 2006). This article will explore the importance of an ethic of connectedness to effective school leadership and the experience of a Pennsylvania school district in nurturing and building a connectedness within the school community.

Abstract in portuguese O Código de Ética Corporativa, seu modelo e orientação ética, forma de implementação e instrumentos utilizados para apoiá-lo, inseridos no programa de gestão ética, influenciam no comportamento ético dos stakeholders internos e, conseqüentemente, na Tomada de DecisãoÉtica nas atividades da organização. A análise deste estudo dá-se pelo cruzamento das perspectivas do gestor de ética sobre o expresso no código e os instrumentos de apoio; a percepção do (more) Códigode Ética pela área jurídica, responsável por mediar o conflito com o consumidor; e a realidade prática extraída dos processos públicos nos órgãos de defesa do consumidor. Foram pesquisadas quatro grandes organizações do Setor de Planos Privados de Assistência à Saúde, o qual concentra alto número de reclamações e foi montado sobre uma base de conflitos de interesses. O estudo conclui que os valores expressos no documento de ética orientam a tomada de decisão ética na relação com o consumidor apenas nas organizações em que os valores foram construídoscoletivamente com os funcionários e/ou disseminados por meio de Programas de Ética consistentes, e que adotam instrumentos de gestão ética que valorizam e apóiam a discussão aberta de dilemas éticos em todos os níveis da organização, de modo a incorporar os valores na cultura organizacional. Abstract in english The Corporate Code of Ethics, its format and ethical orientation, implementation framework and supporting tools included in the ethics management program, have a strong influence in the internal stakeholder ethical behavior, and, consequently, it reflects on the Ethical Decision Making Process in organizational daily activities. This study evaluates whether the values expressed in the ethics document, in fact, conduct the real practice in generating ethical decisions in t (more) he relationship organization-consumers. The analysis is done crossing three perspectives: from the ethics manager, the code content, values and supporting tools; from the lawyer advisor, the perception about the code of ethics, as the area which mediates the conflicts with consumers; and the practiced reality extracted from the public prosecuting processes opened by consumers. This analysis was carried out in four large companies pertaining to the Sector of Private Health Care System, which concentrates a large number of consumers' complaints. This study concludes that the values expressed in the document of ethics guide the ethical decision-making in those organizations that built the values along with the employees and/or disseminated them through consistent Ethical Programs, and that adopted ethics management tools which support open dilemma discussion.

Objective: This article briefly reviews the history of the relationship between psychiatry and the leadership of ethics committees as a background for examining appropriate educational initiatives to adequately prepare residents and early career psychiatrists to serve as leaders of ethics committees. Method: A Medline review of literature on psychiatry and ethics committees and consultation as well as recent survey data from the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine indicate that psychosomatic medicine psychiatrists are particularly qualified and interested in serving as chairs of ethics committees. The authors compare knowledge and skills obtained in psychiatric training with the Society for Heath and Human Values and the Society for Bioethics Consultation Task Force on standards for ethics consultation proposed as core competencies for ethics committee leadership. Results: Psychiatric residency and fellowship training in psychosomatic medicine can provide the knowledge and skill sets to meet the standards for ethics consultation. Further professional development through pursuit of formal ethics training, advance degrees in bioethics, mentoring, and residency and fellowships focus on ethics and enhance competency, confidence, and the skills required for ethics committee leadership. Conclusions: Academic psychiatrists, particularly those in psychosomatic medicine, have historically made a significant contribution as chairs of ethics committees. Continuation and expansion of this leadership may require interested psychiatrists to obtain additional training in bioethics.

Abstract in spanish Se realizó una reflexión sobre el origen y conceptualización de la Bioética. Se abordo la etica en la experimentacion con animales de laboratorio y seres humanos, asi como en dilemas que aparecen en el curso de la investigacion cientifica en ambos campos. Asimismo, son tratados aspectos que deben tenerse en cuenta en la trasplantologia. Se concluye que el incumplimiento de las normas eticas en la investigacion cientifica genera dilemas bioeticos que deben resolverse en funcion del bienestar humano y animal en contraposicion a los intereses comerciales y politicos. Abstract in english The article revises some of the considerations concerning both the origin and conceptualization of Bioethics. It deals with ethical aspects related to experimentation with laboratory animals and human beings, as well as some of the dilemmas that usually come up during the course of testing. It also considers the ethical aspects of transplantology. As conclusions, it states that breaking ethical standards of scientific research provokes bioethical dilemmas, which must be solved to favor human and animal wellbeing against economical and political interests.

Abstract in spanish El trabajo analiza modelos mentales y sistemas representacionales de intervención sobre problemas de la Práctica de Enseñanza en Estudiantes y Docentes del Profesorado de Psicología en Universidad de Buenos Aires. El objetivo es analizar fortalezas y nudos críticos para el desarrollo de competencias en contextos de práctica situada. Marco teórico: enfoques socioculturales, modelos mentales y cambio educativo, competencias para la enseñanza. Se administraron 34 Cue (more) stionarios sobre Situaciones Problema de Intervención a profesores formadores y 99 a profesores de Psicología en formación, antes y después de las Prácticas de Enseñanza en 2007 y 2008. Con enfoque etnográfico, se realizan análisis cualitativos y cuantitativos de modelos mentales en docentes y de giros entre pre-test y post-test de modelos mentales en estudiantes. Resultados: fortalezas en: complejidad, perspectivismo de problemas, objetivos, multiplicidad, pertinencia y destinatarios de intervenciones y nudos críticos en: hipótesis, historización, conflictos y dilemas éticos, especificidad e interagencialidad; herramientas y atribuciones a resultados. Abstract in english The work analyses mental models and representational systems of intervention in problems of Teaching Practice in students and teachers of Psychology Teaching Apprenticeship at Buenos Aires University. The aim is to analyse strengths and critical knots for development of competences in contexts of situated practice. Theoretic frame: socio-cultural focus, mental models in educational change and competences for teaching. 34 questionnaires about Situated Problems of Intervent (more) ions were administered to modeled teachers and 99 questionnaires were administered to teachers in modeling, before and after Teaching Apprenticeship in 2007 and 2008. From ethnographic perspective, quantitative and qualitative analyses are made of teacher's mental models and of shifts between pre-test and post-test in student's mental models. Results: strengths in: complexity, perspectivism in situated problems; aims, multiplicity, relevance and addressee of interventions; critical knots in: hypothesis, history, conflicts and ethical dilemma, specificity and inter-agency: tools and attributions to results.

Abstract in portuguese O artigo analisa a prática do infanticídio em comunidades indígenas brasileiras. Tomando como referência um caso específico envolvendo duas crianças do povo Zuruahá, focaliza o tema sob uma abordagem mais abrangente e discute como o infanticídio é interpretado em outros povos indígenas. Foram considerados, na discussão, os debates ocorridos durante a Audiência Pública realizada no Congresso Nacional Brasileiro, em dezembro de 2005, que analisou o tema, além (more) de revisão bibliográfica. Diante dos posicionamentos assumidos naquela audiência, procurou-se identificar os problemas éticos e os dilemas morais, contextualizando-os e analisando-os à luz do respeito ao pluralismo cultural. A fim de contribuir com o debate, os autores analisam as possibilidades de intervenção nas práticas tradicionais de infanticídio, recusando qualquer opção que não esteja ancorada numa atitude de profundo respeito pela cultura de outros povos ou que não apresente condição de dialogar com indivíduos ou grupos com diferentes moralidades. Abstract in english This article analyzes the practice of infanticide in indigenous communities in Brazil. Taking as a reference point a specific case involving two children of the Zuruahá people, it takes a broader look at the issue and discusses how infanticide is understood among other indigenous peoples. A debate focusing specifically on this topic that took place during a public hearing held in the Brazilian National Congress in December 2005 has also been taken into consideration in t (more) his discussion. In view of the positions adopted as a result of the hearing, this paper seeks to identify the ethical problems and moral dilemmas relating to the subject, by putting them into context and analyzing them in the light of respect for cultural pluralism. Seeking to contribute to the debate, the authors analyze the possibilities for intervention in the traditional practices of infanticide, while rejecting those positions that are not anchored in an attitude of profound respect for other people's cultures or that do not create conditions for dialogue between individuals or groups with different moralities.

Geographic engagement with Indigenous peoples remains inextricably linked to colonialism. Consequently, studying Indigenous geographies is fraught with ethical and political dilemmas. Participatory and community-based research methods have recently been offered as one solution to address concerns about the politics of gathering, framing, producing, disseminating, and controlling knowledge about Indigenous peoples. In this article, we critically engage with the emergence of participatory and community-based research methods as -best practice- for undertaking research into Indigenous geographies. We articulate four concerns with this form of research: a) dissent may be stifled by non-Indigenous researchers- investments in being -good-; b) claims to overcome difference and distance may actual...

This article develops the concept of biosocial pedagogy in HIV education for this era of expanding biomedical forms of HIV control. With reference to critical pedagogy and teaching and learning materials addressing HIV treatment and prevention, I explain how HIV education can problematize its own role in HIV control. I also discuss how educational practice can be informed by the ethical and political dilemmas that face people affected by HIV. I argue that through biosocially aware HIV pedagogy, individuals and communities can be assisted to act on the opportunities and drawbacks of biomedical HIV control.

Abstract in spanish En este trabajo se exploran algunos dilemas éticos enfrentados durante el trabajo de campo en la investigación cualitativa en salud. La premisa es que los códigos éticos no son suficientes para orientar las relaciones entre los investigadores y los informantes siendo necesaria una práctica reflexiva para enfrentar los mismos. La reflexión se centra en cuatro situaciones del trabajo de campo y sus dilemas. El tiempo social de la vida académica estructura la agenda d (more) e trabajo y el investigador se enfrenta a la disyuntiva de seguir los tiempos y ritmos de la academia o negociar con los informantes una agenda conjunta. El investigador también debe decidir cuál de sus múltiples identidades habrá de utilizar para ser aceptado, y al mismo tiempo decidir si oculta o no quien es realmente. En el establecimiento de una relación de intimidad con los informantes el investigador debe resolver si abre su vida personal. Y al momento de definir las formas de reciprocidad, decidir si lo hará de acuerdo a los valores de la academia o a los de los nativos. Se concluye argumentando la necesidad de crear una práctica reflexiva sobre estos y otros dilemas dirigida a colocar una agenda de temas y formas de descolonización en el debate ético en Iberoamérica. Abstract in english This paper explores some ethical dilemmas faced while doing fieldwork. Ethical norms are not enough to appraise the relationship between researchers and participants; a reflexivity practice is needed to understand the dilemmas aroused during this process. Here four issues faced during fieldwork are presented. The academic social time usually defines the schedule of fieldwork; hence, the researcher may decide to follow the academic schedule or to arrange a different schedu (more) le with informants. Researchers usually decide which part of their identity will be disclosed for introducing themselves to the informants; but may also decide to hide who really he/she is. Researchers may cope with the dilemma to disclose their private life to informants during the fieldwork. Researchers also may decide to behave according to academic cultural norms of reciprocity or according to the cultural norms of participants. Finally, a reflexivity movement should be developed in Iberoamerica to define an agenda on ethical issues and to develop decolonizing strategies to debate these ethical dilemmas.

Hazardous workers (HWs) are they who, depending upon their pathologic conditions, ageing or addictive behaviour, may pose at risk the safety and health of their colleagues, customers, and other people. Physicians charged of the medical surveillance of workers (Competent Physicians, CPs) are called to assess fitting for work of HWs. The aim of this paper was to analyze the frequency of debate about HWs in the online forums of the Italian CPs' website. Results show that there is growing attention on the HWs issue. Different stakeholders are involved, and some ethic dilemma are posed. A systematic approach to the problem, and the formulation of guidelines for CPs, is highly desirable. PMID:18409899

This chapter focuses on the special obligation researchers have to consider carefully the ethical and moral aspects of their work when undertaking qualitative field research on intimate matters. The chapter argues that the term "justification" is central to a discussion of several dimensions of ethics in the various phases of research, from the conception of a research idea to the dissimination of research results.

All physicians are faced at some time with fundamental challenges while striving to respect the principle canons which define a physician's ethical code. These canons are: 1. Primacy of patient interests, 2. Patient confidentiality, 3, Informed consent, and 4. Maintenance of a high standard of care. Athletes, because of their focus on performance, often present unique situations which lead to ethical challenges not seen in the general patient population. Adherence to the four principle ethical canons guides physicians to make ethical decisions when dealing with these unique patients. PMID:22894696

Full text of publication follows: the present paper will be concerned with environmental risk perception, with special emphasis on those environmental risks that pertain to global change phenomena, such as climate change and ozone depletion. Two determinants of risk judgments are investigated that seem particularly relevant to environmental risks: ethical and affective evaluations. It is assumed that the focus of risk evaluation can be on one of two aspects: (a) on an evaluation of potential losses, or (b) on ethical considerations. We assume that both, potential loss and violation of ethical principles elicit emotional evaluations, but that these two judgmental aspects are associated with different specific emotions. Following cognitive emotion theories, we distinguish loss-based emotions, such as worry and fear, from ethical emotions, e.g., guilt and anger. A study is presented that investigates the role of ethical and affective evaluations in risk judgments. Various environmental risks were presented to subjects, e.g., air pollution, ozone depletion, climate change and destruction of ecological balance. For each environmental risk, subjects indicated in free-response format as well as on rating scales the extent to which ethical principles were violated, and the intensity of both loss-based and ethical emotions. The correlational structure of the emotion ratings confirms the distinction between loss-based and ethical emotions. Risk judgments co-vary with the strength of ethical evaluation and with the intensity of loss-based emotions, but are independent of ethical emotions. The implications of these findings for the risk appraisal process are discussed. (authors)

This paper provides a critique and re-evaluation of the way that ethics is understood and promoted within mainstream Human Resource Management (HRM) discourse. We argue that the ethics located within this discourse focuses on bolstering the relevance of HRM as a key contributor to organizational strategy, enhancing an organization?s sense of moral legitimacy and augmenting organizational control over employee behaviour and subjectivity. We question this discourse in that it subordinates the ethics of the employment relationship to managerial prerogative. In response, we suggest a different model of the relationship between ethics and HRM?one that finds the possibility of ethics in the contestation and destabilization of HRM. Such ethics arises through resistance to moral normalization and ...

Abstract in spanish Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sobre la ética en pediatría, con el objetivo de corroborar los criterios actuales sobre el tema. Se analizaron algunos dilemas éticos y bioéticos que se deben tener en cuenta en la relación médico-paciente. Se brinda información sobre algunas particularidades del consentimiento informado y se diferencian las formas de comunicación según las edades pediátricas. Abstract in english A bibliographic review was conducted on the Ethics in Pediatrics to corroborate the current criteria on this subject. Some ethical and bioethical dilemmas were analyzed took into account in the physician-patient relation. Authors offer information on some peculiarities of informed consent and the ways of communication according to children ages were distinguished.

Abstract in english This article represents a review of some of the ethical dilemmas that have arisen as a result of the development and deployment of transgenic crop plants. The potential for transgenic crops to alleviate human hunger and the possible effects on human health are discussed. Risks and benefits to the environment resulting from genetic engineering of crops for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses are considered, in addition to effects on biodiversity. The socio-economic i (more) mpacts and distribution of benefits from transgenic technologies are reviewed. Fundamental issues of man?s relationship with nature and the environment, and theological matters are also addressed. An almost unprecedented amount of discussion has been stimulated on the merits and demerits of genetic engineering of crop plants, and has divided both the public and scientific communities. The arguments for and against transgenics are invariably based on visions of the new technology from widely different ethical perspectives.

The New Zealand Curriculum Framework, 1993, is the official document for teaching, learning and assessment in New Zealand schools. It consists of a set of curriculum statements, which define the learning principles, achievement aims and essential skills for seven learning areas. It also indicates the place of attitudes and values in the school curriculum. This paper investigates the requirements for teaching attitudes, values and ethics in the curriculum statements for Science, Biology and Technology. The question is raised whether the teaching of skills for resolving moral and ethical dilemmas are required by the official education standards in New Zealand, and internationally. The paper reports on a survey done on pre-service teacher trainees of their understanding of these requirements. Implications for courses that might need to be provided in future pre-service teacher education programmes are briefly discussed.

This case is designed to help students analyze decision making from various ethical perspectives and to use stakeholder analysis. The case perspective is that of the CEO of Degussa AG, a multispecialty chemical company, headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany. Degussa is considering whether to submit a bid to supply its anti-graffiti coating, Protectosil®, for a new Memorial to the Murdered Jews in Europe being planned for Berlin. Degussa?s ethical dilemma is that a former Degussa subsidiary, Degesch, manufactured and supplied the Zyklon B nerve gas used by the Nazis to kill Jews in the concentration camps during World War II. Although Degussa has made attempts both to acknowledge and to atone for its war-time Nazi collaboration, public disclosure of its bid has the potential to engulf Deguss...

Abstract in portuguese O flúor tem sido empregado para prevenir cárie dentária, principalmente em águas de abastecimento e dentifrícios. Um efeito indesejável, a fluorose dentária leve, tem suscitado preocupações entre especialistas. Neste trabalho identificam-se, na literatura, aspectos éticos decorrentes do emprego de flúor em saúde pública relacionados à contradição "prevenção da cárie versus ocorrência de fluorose leve" e investiga-se a ocorrência de dilemas éticos ent (more) re profissionais envolvidos em decisões sobre o uso desses produtos. Foram identificadas publicações em bases de dados empregando-se os termos de busca ética, bioética, "ethics" e derivações do radical "fluor". O material subsidiou a construção de um questionário aplicado a pesquisadores e autoridades sanitárias, e os dados gerados submetidos à análise de conteúdo. O dilema ético emergente da análise pode ser sintetizado: "Empregar produto com flúor para prevenir cárie dentária tem o inconveniente de produzir graus leves de fluorose dentária, mas não utilizá-lo em saúde pública tem o inconveniente de não impedir o aparecimento de uma doença (cárie) evitável com o seu uso." Tal dilema tem sido resolvido admitindo-se que haveria justiça no emprego do flúor e que seu benefício seria maior do que o malefício ­ sendo este mínimo. Alguns entrevistados reconheceram que há violação do princípio ético da autonomia. Abstract in english Fluoride has been used to prevent dental caries. It is used in supply water and toothpastes. One undesirable effect has been found: mild dental fluorosis. Such stains have aroused concern among specialists. This paper examines, in the literature, ethical aspects resulting from the use of fluoride in public health associated with the "caries prevention versus mild fluorosis occurrence" contradiction and investigates the occurrence of any ethical dilemma among the professio (more) nals involved in decision on the use of such products. Databases were assessed to identify papers through terms such as ética, bioética, ethics and fluor. The material contributed to the drawing up of a questionnaire answered by researchers and health authorities. The data provided by the interviews underwent content analysis. The ethics dilemma may be stated as: "The use of fluoride products to prevent dental caries has in public health the inconvenience of producing mild dental fluorosis in the population, however, the non-use of fluoride has the inconvenience of not preventing the appearance of a disease (caries) that can be prevented if such product is used." The dilemma has shown to be solved, by admitting that the use of such products would be fair and that its benefit would exceed its damages. Nevertheless, some of the respondents admitted a violation of the principle of autonomy.

Qualitative researchers cannot rely on research ethics to be a static practice. In this article we discuss how observation of guidelines for inquiry and international agreements on the dignity of health care research are not sufficient on their own to ensure that the challenges inherent in the everyday management of a project are regulated. We focus in particular on ethics in accessing participants and the construction of informed consent. During our study, important contrasts emerged between the ideal presented for the standard ethics review process and practical ethics. As a result, we focused on building open communication with the participants through rigorous project management. We analyzed the data and wrote this article collaboratively to represent the empirical reality of a team of researchers aiming to take ethical challenges seriously while collecting data in three National Health Service Trusts in the United Kingdom. PMID:23034775

Understanding how cooperative behaviour evolves in network communities, where the individual members interact via social dilemma games, is an on-going challenge. In this paper, we introduce a social network based model to investigate the evolution of cooperation in the N-player Prisoner's Dilemma game. As such, this work complements previous studies focused on multi-player social dilemma games and endogenous networks. Agents in our model, employ different game-playing strategies reflecting varying cognitive capacities. When an agent plays cooperatively, a social link is formed with each of the other N-1 group members. Subsequent cooperative actions reinforce this link. However, when an agent defects, the links in the social network are broken. Computational simulations across a range of pa...

The Eye on Education column focuses on the Washington Association for Biomedical Research's workshop for teachers called Ethics in the Science Classroom. The article describes the 5-day professional development opportunity and the benefits of teaching bioethics to students.

Today, French public debate and bioethics research reflect an ongoing controversy about eugenics. The field of reproductive medicine is often targeted as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), prenatal diagnosis, and prenatal detection are accused of drifting towards eugenics or being driven by eugenics considerations. This article aims at understanding why the charge against eugenics came at the forefront of the ethical debate. Above all, it aims at showing that the charge against prenatal diagnosis is groundless. The point of view presented in this article has been elaborated jointly by a geneticist and a philosopher. Besides a survey of the medical, bioethical, philosophical and social sciences literature on the topic, the methodology is founded on a joint analysis of geneticist's various consults. Evidence from office visits demonstrated that prenatal diagnosis leads to case-by-case decisions. As we have suggested, this conclusion does not mean that prenatal diagnosis is devoid of ethical issues, and we have identified at least two. The first is related to the evaluation of a decision to abort. The second line of ethical questions arises from the fact that the claim for "normality" hardly hides normative and ambiguous views about disability. As a conclusion, ethical dilemmas keep being noticeable in the field of reproductive medicine and genetic counselling, but an enquiry about eugenic tendencies probably does not allow us to understand them in the proper way. PMID:22814726

Abstract in english Background: Since about 1970 biomedical ethics crystallized into a full-fledged discipline. The so called «ethical turn» is a fundamental conceptual challenge for the field of medicine and has generated heated controversy. Today, the ancient psychotherapeutic framework is under the severest strain in its long history. Aim: To review the relationship between psychotherapy and the conceptual shift in moral theory. Material and method: To forge a new model for the patient- (more) physician relationship, speech acts and nature of man derived from a «pragmatic turn» of bioethics. Results: Research findings suggest that behavior, cognitive and psychodinamic psychotherapies are speech-acts constituted by a hierarchy of subordinate acts distributed on three levels: the level of the locutionary act, the act of saying; the level of the illocutionary act (or force), what we do in saying; and the level of the perlocutionary act, what we provoke by the fact that we speak. Conclusions: Advances in linguistic research have led to a more sophisticated understanding of how psychotherapy affect ethical issues. These developments point towards a new era of psychotherapeutical theory and practice in which specific modes of psychotherapy can be designed to target specific dilemmas of medical ethics (Rev Méd Chile 2004; 132: 243-52)

Abstract in portuguese Este artigo apresenta as idéias sobre a ética do biofísico e filósofo spinozista francês contemporâneo Henri Atlan, a partir de sua posição epistemológica singular, em constante trânsito entre a filosofia naturalista (em aliança com as ciências cognitivas) e a recusa aos fundamentos naturais da ética. Sublinha a defesa atlaniana da casuística em relação aos dilemas bioéticos e relaciona-a com sua proposta de diferentes níveis da ética. O texto introduz (more) uma reflexão acerca de uma passagem possível entre os terceiro e quarto níveis de ética, assinalando seu impacto positivo na qualidade de vida de indivíduos e grupos sociais. Abstract in english This article presents the ideas on ethics by the contemporary French biophysicist and Spinozist philosopher Henri Atlan, based on his singular epistemological position, in constant transit between naturalistic philosophy (in alliance with cognitive sciences) and his refusal to a natural foundations of ethics. It underlines Atlan's defense of casuistry towards bioethics dilemmas and associates it to his proposal of different levels of ethics. The text introduces a reflecti (more) on concerning Atlan's ideas about the possible passage between the third and the fourth levels of ethics, stressing its positive impact in individuals and social groups' life quality.

Abstract in spanish En este artículo hacemos una reflexión sobre los miedos, las angustias y los dilemas éticos que enfrentamos como estudiantes en la práctica de enfermería, ante una mujer con cáncer avanzado, en pobreza absoluta y aferrada a la vida. Resaltamos entre los constructos éticos de la praxis de enfermería, la responsabilidad, la compasión y la solidaridad en la práctica cuidante. En esta experiencia encontramos una brecha entre la preparación científico-técnica y la (more) práctica del cuidar. Nuestro aprendizaje en el cuidado nos plantea muchos dilemas, sobre todo en nuestro contexto, caracterizado por profundos problemas sociales y económicos. Abstract in english In this article we reflect about fears, anxieties and the ethical dilemmas we face as practising nursing students in relation to an advanced cancer female patient in absolute poverty but willing to live. We emphasize some ethical principles in nursing practice like responsibility, compassion and solidarity. In this experience we found a gap between scientific-technical preparation and nursing practice. Our nursing training creates many dilemmas for us when we consider the economic and social problems in our environment.

Orthodox Jewish patients who seek genetic counseling are often placed in a difficult position of having to choose between their desire to follow Jewish religious instruction (halacha) and following the advice of the genetic counselor. In this article we will present the work of the Puah Institute based in Jerusalem that is dedicated to assisting and guiding such couples to navigate through the medical system and medical recommendations and create a harmony between modern genetic counseling and the Orthodox Jewish tradition. In light of the expanding use of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for a variety of medical and non-medical conditions, this dilemma is even more poignant. There is an ethical debate regarding PGD and the correct parameters for its use. Here we present the Orthodox Jewish view of the use and abuse of PGD. We present three case studies that sought the assistance and guidance of the Puah Institute. Each of these cases raises ethical dilemmas for the genetic counselor and for the rabbinic counselor. We discuss; the status of the embryo, the status of a carrier of a genetic abnormality and whether PGD is an obligation or good practice. In addition we deal with whether PGD and the search for the desired traits can be defined as eugenics or not. PMID:22532276

Purpose – Snacking has been characterized as normatively unrestricted and identified as one of the main causes of adolescent obesity. The purpose of this paper is not to question the relation between obesity and snacking, but to ask to which extent adolescent snacking is socially unrestricted and to explore adolescent perceptions of the potential conventions and dilemmas involved in snacking. Design/methodology/approach – Referring to previous research in food choice dilemmas and conventions, the paper starts out by discussing potential implications for adolescent snacking in different social contexts. Following this, the design, implementation and results of three focus groups, aiming at an exploration of adolescent snacking perceptions is described. Findings – By identifying two distinct forms of adolescent snacking, i.e. “in-between meals” and “fun snacks”, the results of the focus groups falsify the perception of snacking as socially unrestricted and offer some interesting insights into the conventions, personal dilemmas and intergenerational conflicts which characterize adolescent snacking. Social implications – The classification of snacking as unrestricted of social norms is both unwarranted and counterproductive to the understanding – and subsequently the mitigation – of the relation between snacking and obesity. Originality/value – Apart from falsifying the classification of snacking as unrestricted of social norms, the study contributes by devising a focus group design for elicitation of social norms and dilemmas. Recognizing that the study is just a first step towards a comprehensive understanding of adolescent snacking and that facilitation of healthier snacking behaviors requires such an understanding, recommendations for further research are given.

... Caregiver Occupational Therapy and Ethics Ethics: Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and Ethics Standards (2010) - pdf, 81 kb Ethics: Enforcement Procedures for the OT Code of Ethics and Ethics Standards - pdf, 188 kb Formal Complaint ...

Abstract in spanish A pesar de que la bioética surge en la década de 1970, bajo el imperativo del discurso biomédico, su desarrollo como disciplina que reflexiona sobre el comportamiento humano en torno a la salud ha permitido la reunión de varios saberes, entre ellos, la aportación de las ciencias sociales en dicho campo. De esta forma, la bioética se ocupa de los dilemas que pueden presentarse en los estudios sociales sobre salud (adicciones, violencia, migraciones), incluso en aquel (more) los que, por cuestiones de interés común, son de tipo binacional o multicéntrico. Los objetivos de este artículo son sistematizar y exponer algunas implicaciones de la pertinencia y adecuación del consentimiento informado (CI) en un estudio binacional México-Estados Unidos sobre salud mental y migración. Además, se aportan elementos de análisis para la detección de dilemas éticos en estas intervenciones comunitarias en salud mental en México. De esta forma, se intenta responder a las siguientes preguntas: En el contexto de una investigación binacional, ¿cómo encarar el principio de autonomía y la noción de "voluntariedad", insertos en el requerimiento de un consentimiento informado, en intervenciones de salud mental pública en comunidades rurales mexicanas? ¿Es posible respetar la manera en que los participantes del país anfitrión toman decisiones y cubrir, al mismo tiempo, las exigencias del comité de ética del país patrocinador? Para allegarse los elementos de análisis, se expone someramente la conceptualización de los vocablos ética y bioética, y se abordan algunos postulados planteados tanto de la bioética norteamericana como de la europea, además de aproximarnos a otras posturas bioéticas. Por otro lado, se revisan los principales aportes de los diversos códigos, declaraciones e informes internacionales, incluidas las recomendaciones de la Comisión Nacional de Bioética de México, que norman el proceso del consentimiento informado (CI) en investigación social. El CI es un "proceso social que, a través de un intercambio activo y respetuoso, brinda información sobre la investigación en forma comprensible para el sujeto, permite cerciorarse de que la entienda y tenga opción de preguntar y recibir respuestas a sus dudas, brinde oportunidad para negarse a participar o manifestar voluntad de colaborar y pueda expresarla oralmente o firmar un formulario, sin haber sido sometido a coerción, intimidación ni a influencias o incentivos indebidos". En este sentido, el proceso de consentimiento informado (PCI) protege la libertad de elección del individuo y el respeto de su autonomía. Por ello, también se debe considerar el contexto de desarrollo de grupos culturales diversos al del investigador, sus tradiciones en cuanto a comunicación y decisión, y se deben respetar estos procedimientos. En la investigación social, como en ninguna otra, la puesta en práctica de la normatividad del PCI es muy variada, debido a que se trabaja con sectores dispuestos a participar (prostitutas, usuarios de drogas, primo-delincuentes, etc.) a condición de no firmar ningún consentimiento escrito, lo que otorga prioridad a la calidad de la relación establecida y no sólo al formato. Este documento expone la reflexión sobre algunos dilemas éticos que se presentaron durante una investigación social cuyo objetivo fue identificar los malestares emocionales asociados a la migración internacional México-EUA y la utilización de servicios de salud mental. Específicamente, el análisis ético se centra en la información recabada en el trabajo de campo por medio de la técnica observación participante, en una comunidad rural en el estado de Michoacán. Abstract in english Ethics, understood as the study of moral norms in terms of its assumptions, origins, and changes over time, systematizes similarities and differences between various moral codes. It therefore serves as a meeting point between different perspectives, through dialogue, a fundamental characteristic of this discipline. One of its derivations, as applied ethics, is bioethics, defined by Van Rensselaer Potter as "New knowledge that provides knowledge on how to use knowledge for (more) the good of society". Although bioethics emerged in the 1970s under the imperative of medical discourse, its development as a discipline reflecting human behavior surrounding health has permitted the combination of various types of knowledge, including the contribution of social sciences in this field. Thus bioethics deals with the dilemmas that may arise in social studies on health (such as addictions, violence and migrations). The aims of this manuscript are to systematize and explain some of the implications of the pertinence and adaptation of informed consent (IC) in a bi-national Mexico-United States study on mental health and migration. It also provides elements of analysis for the detection of ethical dilemmas in these community interventions in mental health in Mexico. It therefore attempts to answer the following questions: Within the context of bi-national research, how does one deal with the principle of autonomy and the notion of "voluntariness" included in the requirement of informed consent, in public mental health interventions in Mexican rural communities? Is it possible to respect the way participants in the host country make decisions while at the same time, meeting the demands of the ethics committee of the sponsor country? In order to arrive at the elements of analysis, the authors briefly explain the conceptualization of the terms ethics and bioethics, and explore some of the postulates put forward in both North American (principalism and casuism) and European bioethics (communitarianism), in addition to approaching other bioethical positions (ethics of responsibility and protection), by highlighting certain cultural elements that particularize the world views that give rise to the aforementioned ethical approaches. At the same time, the authors review the principal contributions of the various international codes, declarations and reports, including recommendations by the National Commission of Bioethics of Mexico that regulate the process of Informed Consent (IC) in Social Research. IC is a social process which, through active, respectful exchange provides information on research in a comprehensible way for the subject, in such a way that he is aware of the risks, benefits, consequences or problems that may occur during research. The researcher must ensure that the participant has properly understood all the information related to the project, has the opportunity to ask and be given answers to his doubts and is aware of his right to dissent (not adjust to someone's feeling or opinion) or express his will to collaborate by consenting (to allow or agree to something being done) without having been subjected to coercion, intimidation or undue influences of incentives. The process of informed consent (IC) is essentially verbal, and without underestimating this fact, given the importance of the decision about to be taken, as happens when one agrees to take part in a research project, it is sometimes necessary to leave a written record of this. In this respect, the process of informed consent consists of three elements: information, understanding and voluntariness. In itself, it involves the protection of the individual's freedom of choice and respect for his autonomy. One should therefore consider the context of development of different cultural groups from that of the researcher and his traditions regarding communication and decision and these procedures must be respected. The study also includes aspects that have rarely been discussed in the process of informed consent (PIC) such as the need to clarify the type of relationship and exercise of power that may occur between the researcher and the person being researched, the lack of questioning about whether the commitment acquired by the researcher to respect the participants' autonomy during the PIC helps or prevents people from regarding themselves as rights-holders. Finally, the study highlights the fact that, although social research is considered of "minimum risk", the information provided in the PIC may cause emotional distress classified as "psychological risks" such as stress anxiety, fear or lack of tranquility. In social research, as in no other, the implementation of PIC normative approach is extremely varied, due to the fact that one works with sectors prepared to participate (prostitutes, drug users, first-time offenders, etc.) on the condition that they will not sign any informed consent, thereby giving priority to the quality of the relationship established, rather than the format. This manuscript explains the reflection on certain ethical dilemmas that arose during a social research project, the aim of which was to identify the emotional distress associated with Mexico-United States international migration and the use of mental health services. The ethical analysis specifically focuses on the information obtained during the field work through the participatory observation technique, in a rural community in the state of Michoacan. The main conflictive situations experienced due to the notion of voluntariness and the principle of autonomy underpinning PIC include: • The fact that for some residents, discussing certain issues related to public mental health such as alcohol and drug consumption may be interpreted as "disloyalty" to their community and constitutes sufficient grounds for not participating. • Understanding that some researchers suffer the consequences of their colleagues' mistakes, as borne out by another of the arguments given for not participating: " We are fed up of fly-by-night researchers, who just come in, obtain their data and are never seen in the community again". It is also worth reflecting on whether this argument reflects a questioning of the researcher's authority and/or a loss of faith in social progress through science, but how can one speak of social progress with the residents of communities that lack drainage and electricity?

Abstract in portuguese O desenvolvimento da Fisioterapia, aliado às mudanças na educação e na saúde, faz com que a autonomia e os dilemas éticos do fisioterapeuta sejam maiores a cada dia, expandindo seu papel no cuidado do paciente. Para além do Código de Ética, as noções de Bioética são centrais no preparo de graduandos para os desafios profissionais. Este estudo verificou a capacidade de tomar decisões éticas de alunos no último ano de Fisioterapia de duas universidades na ci (more) dade de São Paulo, das quais uma oferece no currículo a disciplina Bioética e a outra não. Cinqüenta alunos de cada universidade responderam a um questionário sobre dilemas éticos correspondentes a artigos do Código de Ética; cada questão oferecia três alternativas de resposta: uma bioética, outra referente ao Código e uma não-ética. As respostas foram analisadas estatisticamente. Os resultados mostraram um bom preparo ético em pouco mais de metade dos alunos das duas universidades, sugerindo que ambas oferecem preparo ético similar aos graduandos, independente da diferença curricular. No entanto, os alunos da universidade que oferece Bioética tiveram resultados significantemente melhores nos quesitos referentes à relação com outros profissionais da saúde, sugerindo que essa disciplina oferece melhores condições para o relacionamento interprofissional, fator importante tanto na prática clínica quanto para elevar o status da Fisioterapia. Abstract in english Physical therapy recent expansion, along with changes in education and health, enhance physical therapists' role in patient care, while increasing both their autonomy and the ethical challenges they face in daily clinic. In addition to knowledge of the professional ethical code, notions of Bioethics are thought to be central to students training. This study analysed the ability to make ethical decisions among 100 physical therapy undergraduate students at two universities (more) in São Paulo, of which only one offers the discipline Bioethics. Fifty students of each university answered a questionnaire of dilemmas related to items of the Physical Therapy Code of Ethics; for each question there was a choice between three answers, bioethical, in accordance with the ethical code, or non-ethical. Answers were statistically analysed. About half the students of both universities seemed to be satisfactorily prepared to act ethically, thus suggesting that both offer similar ethical training, regardless of curricula differences. However, students from the university that offers Bioethics had significantly better results in questions concerning the relationship with other health providers, thereby suggesting that this discipline may provide better student training for inter-professional relationship, which is important both to clinical practice and to raise physical therapy status.

Introduction The debate over use of artificial nutrition and hydration (ANH) in terminal illness, including advanced dementia, remains contentious despite extensive ethical and empirical investigation. Methods For this narrative review we undertook a focused, selective review of literature reflecting ethical analysis, empirical assessment of outcomes, legal responses, and thinking within the Roman Catholic religious tradition. Results The history of the debate over the past 60 years results from a complex interplay of ethical concerns, a growing empirical database, legal changes, public opinion, and financial as well as institutional concerns. Discussions of ANH today are often conducted without any understanding of this historical context. Discussion Patients? interests could be better pr...

Ethical issues of urban planning in Turkey are understudied. This article briefly examines eight possible sources of unethical behavior, decision and policy in Turkish urban planning. This analysis of ethical problems and sources of physical urban planning focuses on the local government level. This study focuses on harmonizing Turkish and international literature on local politics, urban planning, urbanization, planning profession and planning ethics literature with the perceptions, attitudes and conditions of planning actors based on interviews and survey conducted in selected Turkish municipalities and SPAs in 2008-09 as part of a major EU-funded public sector ethics project in Turkey. The roles of interest groups, conditions of planners and decision-makers on urban planning and plannin...

OBJECTIVES:: To describe how members of the older general public deliberate with one another in finding solutions to the dilemma of involving persons with decisional incapacity in dementia research. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS:: One hundred sixty persons age 50 years and older who participated in an all-day deliberative democracy session on the ethics of surrogate consent for dementia research. The deliberative democracy day consisted of both extensive, interactive education with experts in clinical research and ethics, as well as small group deliberations. MEASUREMENTS:: Audiotaped small group deliberations were transcribed and analyzed and the main thematic elements were coded. RESULTS:: During deliberation, participants acknowledged the limitations of advanced research directives and discussed ways to improve their use. Although there was consensus about the necessity of surrogate consent, the participants recognized potential pitfalls and looked for ways to safeguard the process. Participants supporting surrogate consent for research emphasized societal and individual benefits, the importance of assent, and trust in surrogates and the oversight system. Other participants felt that the high risk of some research scenarios was not sufficiently offset by benefits to patients or society. CONCLUSIONS:: Members of the older general public are able to make use of in-depth education and peer deliberation to provide reasoned and informed opinions on the ethical use of surrogate consent for dementia research. The public's approach to surrogate consent is one of cautious pragmatism: an overall trust in science and future surrogates with awareness of the potential pitfalls, suggesting that their trust cannot be taken for granted. PMID:22337147

To make meaning of scientific knowledge in such a way that concepts and values of the life-world are not threatened is difficult for students and laymen. Ethics and morals pertaining to the use of genetic tests for hereditary diseases have been investigated and discussed by educators, anthropologists, medical doctors and philosophers giving, at least in part, diverging results. This study investigates how students explain and understand their argumentation about dilemmas concerning gene testing for the purpose to reduce hereditary diseases. Thirteen students were interviewed about their views on this issue. Qualitative analysis was done primarily by relating students’ argumentation to their movements between ethics and morals as opposing poles. Students used either objective or subjective knowledge but had difficulties to integrate them. They tried to negotiate ethic arguments using utilitarian motives and medical knowledge with sympathy or irrational and personal arguments. They discussed the embryo’s moral status to decide if it was replaceable in a social group or not. The educational implications of the students’ use of knowledge in personal arguments are discussed.

Abstract in portuguese O presente artigo traz alguns questionamentos sobre a aproximação entre Psicologia, psicoterapia, formação e Bioética. Esta discussão surge por esta última disciplina estar em evidência nos tempos atuais, em virtude dos avanços tecnológicos da ciência como um todo. Desta forma, considera-se pertinente falar em Bioética em todas as especialidades que, de algum forma, têm o ser humano como centro. A Psicologia, por trabalhar com pessoas, representa uma especial (more) idade capaz de concorrer grandemente para a solução dos dilemas encontrados na Bioética e contribuir com essa área do saber. A partir daí, da mesma forma, procura-se entender como os princípios bioéticos podem ser transpostos para o processo psicoterapêutico. O artigo propõe reflexões sobre questões como dilemas éticos que podem surgir no trabalho do psicólogo, o uso do Termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido (TCLE) no processo psicoterápico, a formação profissional e outras. Pretende-se, no artigo, tornar presentes alguns questionamentos pouco trabalhados, fazendo uma contribuição reflexiva, mas não determinante. Abstract in spanish Este artículo trae algunos cuestionamientos sobre la aproximación entre psicología, psicoterapia, formación y bioética. Esta discusión surge debido a esta última disciplina estar en evidencia actualmente, en virtud de los avances tecnológicos de la ciencia en su totalidad. De este modo, se considera pertinente hablar de bioética en todas las especialidades que, de alguna forma, tiene el ser humano en su centro. La psicología, por trabajar con personas, represent (more) a una especialidad de gran contribución para los dilemas encontrados en la bioética, lo que puede contribuir para esa área del saber. Desde ese lugar, se busca entender como los principios bioéticos pueden ser transpuestos para el proceso psicoterapéutico. El artículo propone reflexiones como: dilemas éticos que pueden surgir en el trabajo del psicólogo, el uso del Término de Consentimiento Libre y Aclarado (TCLA) en el proceso psicoterápico, la formación profesional y otros. Se pretende, con este artículo, presentar algunos cuestionamientos poco trabajados, haciendo una contribución reflexiva, pero no determinante. Abstract in english Issues on the link between Psychology, therapy, training and Bioethics are provided and discussed. Current discussion is justified due to the fact that Bioethics has become an important subject in the context of contemporary technological and scientific improvements as a whole. It is thus essential to discuss Bioethics in all its specialties, taking the human being as its focus and center. Since Psychology deals with human beings, it may be highly contribute towards the s (more) olution of dilemmas in Bioethics and its importance may be highlighted within this area. Consequently, the manner bioethical principles may be transposed to the psychotherapeutic process is of paramount importance. Current essay reflects on the ethical dilemmas that the psychologist may face, on the use of the Term of Free and Clear Consent (TCLE) in the psychotherapeutic process, professional training, among others. It shall also shed some light on less discussed issues for reflective, albeit not determinant, contributions.

Research has shown that HIV-positive patients sometimes refuse to take precautionary measures against sexual transmission as well as to notify their sexual partner(s) of their status. Faced with such a situation, physicians find themselves in a dilemma as they are forced to choose between honouring their duty of professional confidentiality and protecting their patients’ partner(s). Recent advice from the Belgian Medical Council (BMC) for the first time accepts that physicians can exceptionally, and under certain conditions, invoke necessity to breach confidentiality and inform usual and occasional sexual partners of HIV-infected patients who refuse to take precautions against transmission. This article sketches the ethical evolution of this position from 1987 up to now in Belgium, ...

This paper explores a confluence of Fair Trade and organic initiatives under the prevalence of Bt cotton in India, using as an interpretative framework Guthman's conventionalization thesis for organic farming in the Northern context. In a case study conducted in Andhra Pradesh, the confluence of the two initiatives, contrary to their ethical standards, contributed to the spread of genetically modified (GM) seed. The Fair Trade initiative, lacking a scheme for compensating for the decrease in income that producers have to endure during the conversion period, tends to take a more relaxed attitude toward GM crops in order to assist small farmers. Fair Trade's dilemma between helping poor farmers and promoting organic farming may have indirectly allowed Fair Trade producers to tend towards con...

Because of their physical size and physiological immaturity, resuscitation of extremely very low birth weight premature infants is a big dilemma for neonatologists in any hospital. The resuscitation may present an additional challenge to the caregiver if it is undertaken in a remote community hospital with limited technical facilities and health personnel. We present the case of successful resuscitation of a 23-week-old premature infant, with a birth weight of 650 g, at Delma Island Community Hospital, United Arab Emirates. Despite the comparatively limited facilities for such a resuscitation, the rapid ethical decisions made when considering the resuscitation of such a borderline viable fetus, were key in avoiding long term neurological and pulmonary problems and contributed to the outcome of a healthy infant.

Biobanks as collections of population level genetic and health data will be central to the innovation of new drugs and drug targets. The UK Biobank, funded by massive public and charitable investment, was created to store and manage the genetic and health data of over 500,000 people in the UK. The UK Biobank will be available to researchers from both private and public sectors, and is intended to support innovation and serve the public good. We argue that the UK Biobank faces a dilemma in that the knowledge generated is potentially commercialisable and patentable. As knowledge resulting it is transformed into excludable or private goods by scarcity and patenting, it is subject to the tragedies of commons and anti-commons. We question whether the current ethics and governance framework can ...

Wiki "communities" based on the open access ideology allow any visitor to easily add, remove or edit content. However, there are a slew of ethics and policy challenges inherent in their use. Open source software developers are faced with the dilemma of openly sharing their intellectual property and prevent others from claiming proprietary rights from the code they freely shared to the public? Intellectual Property rights licensing, ironically, is the route by which open software developers have chosen to regulate their free code in cyberspace. Open source code is generally free on the surface; but in reality, it comes with obligations which are enforceable by law. Aside from the potential liability for intellectual property infringement, the use of open software raises competition law and ...

A total of 1,186 proposals of clinical trials have been studied by the National Committee for Clinical Trials (NCCT) in 1995, with an annual increase of 15-20% since 1991. Of those, 61.4% dealt with drugs, the others-with medical instruments and techniques. As many proposals were part of multi-center studies, altogether 524 different drug-trials were studied, the leading fields being cardiovascular, nephrology, neurology, oncology, and infectious diseases in this order of importance. Forty two different proposals (8%) were discussed in depth in the NCCT while 92% were approved by hospital-committees and representatives of the national committee. Out of the 44 problematic proposals, discussed by the NCCT, .5 proposals were totally rejected, while 9 were approved following changes suggested by the committee. The ethical, moral and legal dilemmas presented by the proposals will be discussed. PMID:9114707

There are positive views towards use of science and technology in all Asian countries, and positive views towards use of enhancement in China, India and Thailand. After considering of the widespread use of cosmetic surgery and other body enhancements in Asian countries, and the generally positive views towards letting individuals make choices about improvement of themselves, the paper concludes that we can expect other enhancements to also be adopted rapidly in Asia. There will be future ethical dilemmas emerging from this with concepts of preservation of nature, flow with nature, and definitions of human-ness, along with concepts of harmony and social justice. Japan is less willing to engage in genetic enhancement compared to China, India and Thailand, despite widespread cosmetic surgery ...

To meet the demands required for safe and effective care, nurses must be able to integrate theoretical knowledge with clinical practice (Kohen and Lehman, 2008; Polit and Beck, 2008; Shirey, 2006). This should include the ability to adapt research in response to changing clinical environments and the changing needs of service users. It is through reflective practice that students develop their clinical reasoning and evaluation skills to engage in this process. This paper aims to describe the development, implementation and evaluation of a project designed to provide a structural approach to the recognition and resolution of clinical, theoretical and ethical dilemmas identified by 3rd year undergraduate mental health nursing students. This is the first paper to describe the iterative proces...

The Uniform Accident and Sickness Policy Provision Law (UPPL) is a statute existing in 26 states that permits health insurance companies to deny payment for claims made by individuals who have sustained injuries as a result of drug or alcohol use. This law presents a series of complicated clinical and ethical dilemmas for social workers and other medical personnel. The majority of contributions to the national discussion regarding the UPPL have been produced by the medical, nursing, and policy/legal disciplines. Social work has, however, remained silent. It is paramount that social workers add their perspective and insight to this debate. This article discusses the first survey, to the authors' knowledge, of social workers practicing in health care settings regarding their knowledge and beliefs about the UPPL.

Catholic theology?s traditional understanding of the spiritual nature of the human person begins with the idea of a rational soul and human mind that is made manifest in free will?the spiritual experience of the act of consciousness and cause of all human arts. The rationale for this religion-based idea of personhood is key to understanding ethical dilemmas posed by modern research that applies a more empirical methodology in its interpretations about the cause of human consciousness. Applications of these beliefs about the body/soul composite to the theory of evolution and to discoveries in neuroscience, paleoanthropology, as well as to recent animal intelligence studies, can be interpreted from this religious and philosophical perspective, which argues for the human soul as the unifying ...

Abstract in spanish La ciencia genómica cambió la evolución de la vida en el planeta, planteando una serie de dilemas éticos, que requieren de la transformación de la bioética para responder a los retos que enfrentara en el Siglo XXI. Este artículo manejará cuatro temas : Tecnociencia, biotecnología y ciencia genómica; bioética; bioética y ciencia genómica; y las relaciones entre la bioética, la ciencia genómica y el bioderecho. Abstract in english The genomic science changed the evolution of life in the planet, established seldom ethical dilemmas, that require bioethics transformation in order to response to the challengers that the XXI century has. This article will explain four themes: Techno-science, biotechnology, and genomic science; bioethics; bioethics and genomic science; and the relations between bioethics, genomic science and biolaw.

Abstract in portuguese Este artigo pretende refletir sobre a pesquisa qualitativa e seu uso na área da saúde. A partir de considerações sobre os "modos somáticos de atenção" e exemplos de pesquisas realizadas, proponho, primeiramente, um questionamento sobre dicotomias como teoria-metodologia, sujeito-objeto e racionalidade-técnica. Sugiro que essas dicotomias possam estar na base daquelas que são consideradas dificuldades na utilização da metodologia qualitativa em projetos de pesqu (more) isa da área da saúde, como (1) o problema da escolha das técnicas de pesquisa; (2) o dilema do número de casos; (3) a participação do contexto da pesquisa; e (4) os procedimentos de análise ou interpretação dos dados. Num segundo momento, busco mostrar como essas dicotomias também podem estar implicadas na ética das pesquisas qualitativas. Finalmente, observo que esses questionamentos, quando projetados para os Comitês de Ética em Pesquisa, apresentam o grande desafio de avaliar a adequação metodológica em conjunto com os procedimentos éticos de cada projeto, respeitando as especificidades da pesquisa qualitativa. Abstract in english This article approaches the use of qualitative methods in health research. Following the concept of "somatic modes of attention" and examples of previous ethnographic research, I discuss the dichotomies theory-methodology, subject-object, rationale-techniques to suggest that they may be responsible for what has been pointed out as important constraints of qualitative research: (1) the problem of choosing the right research techniques; (2) the dilemma of the number of case (more) s to be studied; (3) the role of the context; and (4) data analysis/interpretation procedures. I argue that these separations can affect research ethics. Ethics needs to be incorporated in methodology as a whole and inform the choice of techniques, sampling procedures, the context and data analysis/interpretation. Finally, this paper points out that the specificity of qualitative research needs to be acknowledged by Research Ethics Committees and suggests they should look, more than anything, at each project's methodological adequacy together with ethical procedures.

The idea of radical pedagogy is connected to the ideals of social justice and democracy and also to the ethical demands of love, care and human flourishing, an emotional context that is sometimes forgotten in discussions of power and inequality. Both this emotional context and also the emphasis on politics can be found in the writings of Paolo Freire, someone who has provided much inspiration for radical pedagogy over the years. However, Freire did not create any explicit ethical foundation for radical pedagogy. This paper argues that, when constructing normative grounds for radical pedagogy, Habermas's discourse ethics can be an important source, with the caveat that discourse ethics on its own is not sufficient grounding enough where radical pedagogy is concerned. Habermasian critical theory should be supplemented with Axel Honneth's theory of recognition, as Freire's focus on love and human flourishing corresponds well with Honneth's theory's three modes of recognition: love, rights and respect (solidarity stemming from mutual relations of respect).

The recruitment of the next generation of workers is of central concern to contemporary HRM. This paper focuses on university campuses as a major site of this process, and particularly as a new domain in which HRM?s ethical claims are configured, in which it sets and answers a range of ethical questions as it outlines the ?ethos? of the ideal future worker. At the heart of this ethos lies what we call the ?principle of potentiality?. This principle is explored through a sample of graduate recruitment programmes from the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers, interpreted as ethical exhortations in HRM?s attempt to shape the character of future workers. The paper brings the work of Georg Simmel to the study of HRM?s ethics and raises the uncomfortable question that, within discourses of endless p...

In Nigeria, medical education remains focused on the traditional clinical and basic medical science components, leaving students to develop moral attitudes passively through observation and intuition. In order to ascertain the adequacy of this method of moral formations, we studied the opinions of medical students in a Nigerian university towards medical ethics training. Self administered semi-structured questionnaires were completed by final year medical students of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. There were 82 (64.1%) male and 44 (34.4%) female respondents. The median age was 26?years. Most students (80.5%) responded that they did not receive enough training in medical ethics. The ethics instructions they received did not sufficiently prepare them for the ethical ...

Abstract in portuguese O objetivo deste artigo é discutir os principais dilemas e dificuldades nas decisões de final de vida de crianças com doença irreversível em fase terminal, assim como, propor uma sequência racional para a instituição de cuidados paliativos nesse grupo pediátrico. Foi realizada busca na base de dados Medline e Lilacs dos artigos publicados nos últimos anos tendo como palavras chaves "final de vida", "cuidados paliativos", "morte" e "doença terminal". Foram selec (more) ionados os mais relevantes e aqueles envolvendo crianças, os quais foram analisados em conjunto com publicações prévias dos próprios autores sobre o assunto. O atual código de ética médica brasileiro (2010) é analisado em relação às práticas de final de vida e cuidados paliativos ofertados a pacientes com doença fase terminal e irreversível. A falta de conhecimento e treinamento aliado a receios legais são os principais motivos para que as decisões de final de vida em crianças com doença em fase terminal sejam centradas na opinião médica e com escassa participação da família. O atual código de ética médica dá pleno suporte para essas decisões desde que tomadas de forma consensual com participação da família. O diálogo franco com familiares em relação ao diagnóstico, prognóstico, terapêutica e cuidados paliativos devem ser estabelecidos gradualmente, para definir a melhor estratégia que atenda às necessidades da criança em fase final de vida. O tratamento centrado no bem estar da criança com pleno envolvimento da família é a base para o sucesso do tratamento paliativo em crianças em final de vida. Abstract in english This review discusses the main dilemmas and difficulties related to end-of-life decision's in children with terminal and irreversible diseases and propose a rational sequence for delivering palliative care to this patients' group. The Medline and Lilacs databases were searched using the terms 'end of life', 'palliative care', 'death' and 'terminal disease' for articles published in recent years. The most relevant articles and those enrolling pediatric patients were select (more) ed and compared to previous authors' studies in this field. The current Brazilian Medical Ethics Code (2010) was analyzed regarding end-oflife practices and palliative care for terminal patients. Lack of knowledge, insufficient specific training, and legal concerns are the main reasons why end-of-life decisions in terminal children are based on medical opinion with scarce family participation. The current Brazilian Medical Ethics Code (2010) fully supports end-of-life decisions made consensually with active family participation. Honest dialogue with the family regarding diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic and palliative care measures should be established gradually to identify the best strategy to meet the child's end-of-life needs. Treatment focused on the child's welfare combined with the family's participation is the basis for successful palliative care of children with terminal diseases.

Abstract in spanish La futura Directiva Marco de Suelos europea tratará de minimizar el impacto de los efectos de la erosión del suelo sobre la adopción de prácticas de conservación del suelo en explotaciones agrícolas desde una triple dimensión: económica, agroambiental y ética. Por tanto, en este artículo se realiza una aproximación bajo la perspectiva de la Teoría de Juegos al dilema social al que se enfrentan los agricultores y la sociedad ante la conservación del recurso su (more) elo desde dos puntos de vista: el de la adopción de prácticas de conservación del suelo y el de la dimensión ética intergeneracional, dado que la teoría económica neoclásica trata de forma deficiente las cuestiones que están fuera del mercado, especialmente las relacionadas con aspectos éticos y medioambientales. Así, partiendo de este dilema social, caracterizado como una situación paradójica donde el comportamiento racional del individuo cuando intenta maximizar su beneficio provoca un comportamiento social irracional, se descubrirán otras paradojas relativas al principio de no-redistribuibilidad de costes (intransferibles) y beneficios (cautivos), las cuales se fundamentan en una concepción incompleta de la racionalidad del agente económico, en general, y del agricultor, en particular. Abstract in english The next European Soil Framework Law will try to minimize the soil erosion impact on soil conservation practices in European farms from three dimensions: economic, environmental and ethic. In this framework, this paper is an approximation to this problem since Game Theory scope, particularly, the social dilemma of farmers and society related to soil conservation from two points of view: adoption of soil conservation practices and intergenerational equity, because of neocl (more) assical theory is deficient for analyze topics out of market, specifically, ethics and environmental items. This social dilemma is a paradoxical situation where individual rational behavior, when maximize profits, imply social irrational solution. This paper develops new paradoxes related to non-transferable costs, as well as captive profits. These are concepts of an incomplete rationality of economic agent, in general, and of farmer, in particular.

This paper discusses the feasibility and dilemmas in stimulating high-tech clusters in peripheral regions. In recent years innovation and cluster policy to a large extend has been focused upon stimulating collective learning processes and building social capital. This has in turn accentuated a need to focus on the carriers of the cluster policy. Despite this importance of the role of policy actors, research in cluster development and even cluster policy has generally not emphasized a more precise specification of this role. This paper contributes to this debate by substantiating the concept of “clusterpreneurs” defined as important actors in cluster formation. We illustrate the role of clusterpreneurs by the example of a biomedical technology cluster initiative in North Jutland, Denmark and point to the presence of different types of dilemmas connected with cluster policy. We show how the presence of clusterpreneurs can make this initiative more legitimised and embedded in the regional context, although dilemmas and challenges in the policy making still prevail. We furthermore find the mental and social proximity and agreements on common objectives among clusterpreneurs facilitated the support of the evolution of the cluster.

This article sets out the Dutch approach to the multicultural question. It focuses on how national policies, schools, teachers and teacher educators are addressing and making sense of questions of cultural and religious diversity. The article shows how the Netherlands has partly accommodated itself to greater cultural diversity through compulsory reforms like intercultural education and citizenship education and through its long-established structure of public funding for pedagogically and religiously diverse schools. It also shows the double standards applied to Christian and Islamic schools in the media and public debate. Drawing on interview data with teachers and case study material on teacher educators, the article describes their daily dilemmas with regard to diversity and commonality in contemporary classrooms and concludes that these teachers do not have the professional expertise needed to respond effectively to such dilemmas.

In many social dilemmas, individuals tend to generate a situation with low payoffs instead of a system optimum ("tragedy of the commons"). Is the routing of traffic a similar problem? In order to address this question, we present experimental results on humans playing a route choice game in a computer laboratory, which allow one to study decision behavior in repeated games beyond the Prisoner's Dilemma. We will focus on whether individuals manage to find a cooperative and fair solution compatible with the system-optimal road usage. We find that individuals tend towards a user equilibrium with equal travel times in the beginning. However, after many iterations, they often establish a coherent oscillatory behavior, as taking turns performs better than applying pure or mixed strategies. The resulting behavior is fair and compatible with system-optimal road usage. In spite of the complex dynamics leading to coordinated oscillations, we have identified mathematical relationships quantifying the observed transition...

Most professionals have the arduous task of managing their own dual loyalty: in one contextual relationship, they are members of a profession while simultaneously they are employed as members of a locally established organisation. This sense of a dual loyalty has to be taken into account when professional bureaucracies develop ethics programmes. This article focuses on universities. Accounting for the dual loyalty of academic professionals, it is the objective of the study to contribute to the most appropriate ethics programmes in such an academic context. Based on a review of the literature, we identify which ethical issues commonly emerge in educational and research activities. Then we offer a conceptual analysis of the conditions required for each different strategy of ethics management. We argue that none of the four theoretically derived strategies is applicable solely on its own. For universities it is most promising to design ethics programmes based on the guiding values of the academic community, including integrity measures for universities and corrective measures for students. The argument developed in this article is assumed to be widely applicable in assessing the appropriateness of ethics management strategies in other professional settings. (Contains 1 figure and 3 tables.)

The purpose of this book is to provide a basic resource that defines the ethical issues in higher education and to offer a starting point for means of resolution or policy development in regard to them. Part 1 establishes an interpretive framework for the book in the following papers: "Institutional Culture and Ethics" (David Smith and Charles Reynolds); "Academic Principles of Responsibility" (Charles Reynolds and David Smith); "Through Thick and Thin: Two Ways of Talking about the Academy and Moral Responsibility" (James Laney). Part 2, focusing on activities and functions common to most institutions, contains "Academic Planning: Values and Decision Making" (Richard Morrill); "Admission Recruiting and Selection: Some Ethical Concerns" (Alice Cox); "Ethical Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics" (Lonnie Kliever); "Institutional Advancement: Survival with Integrity" (Harlan Stelmach and Mark Holman); "Ethical Issues in Faculty Evaluation" (George LaNoue). In part 3, a number of current and pressing issues are examined in the following papers: "Affirmative Action: Solution or Problem?" (Donna Shavlik); "Cheating and Plagiarism" (Richard Fass); "Legitimate Limits on Free Expression" (Deni Elliott); "Racism on Campus" (Mark Chesler and James Crowfoot); "The Challenge of Diversity" (J. Herman Blake and others); "The Guardians of Heloise? Sexual Harassment in Higher Education" (Mary Jo Small); "Student Social Concerns" (Margaret Barr); "Values and Ethics in the Graduate Education of Scientists" (Jules LaPidus and Barbara Mishkin); "Regulating Proprietary and Classified Research: Some Observations on Current University Policies" (Nicholas Steneck); "When Responsibilities Conflict: Stock Ownership and South Africa" (Raymond Bacchetti); "Ethics and Educational Assessment" (Marjorie Peace Lenn and D. Jeffrey Lenn); "Ethical Challenges of the College and University Presidency" (Daniel Perlman). References accompany each paper. (JDD)

This study focuses on the effectiveness of incorporating the Laboratory for Innovative Technology and Engineering Education (LITEE) Lorn Manufacturing case into a senior level chemical engineering unit operations course at Manhattan College. The purpose of using the case study is to demonstrate the relevance of ethics to chemical engineering students by addressing real-life ethical problems found in the workplace. The selected LITEE case study, which involves a maintenance worker who experiences an accident during a routine procedure, helps transfer the theory behind ethics into practice, highlights the importance of team work, and prepares the students to evaluate and present an assigned position in the case to a panel of two attorneys. The assignment also helps narrow down the question of where to incorporate ethics into the overcrowded chemical engineering curriculum. Student feedback indicates that the unit operations laboratory course is not the best place to insert the case study. Implications for future research suggest for an engineering ethics course, which can allow for ethics to be taught in an in-depth and more effective manner. Finally, the case study helps educators realize that students should have experiences outside of their comfort zone by learning to communicate technical concepts in a comprehendible manner to a real audience and in a realistic atmosphere. The limitations of this study further strengthen the notion of the magnitude of the challenge it is for educators to teach ethics to engineering students since it may or may not be possible to change a person's ethical values. (Contains 2 figures and 2 tables.)

This is a study of the moral and ethical dimensions of political realism in post-World War II America, especially in relation to realist thought on nuclear weapons issues. Emphasis is placed on evolving notions of power and responsibility as they form the basis for a realist philosophy of power in the nuclear age. It is argued that the realists developed a concept of responsible power which was a hybrid of traditional American ideals and European Realpolitik. Included are chapters on the personal and intellectual background of five noteworthy realists, the realist position on some basic dilemmas in political ethics, the problem of usable and unusable force, the realists' view on deterrence and arms control, the question of democracy versus guardianship, and the realists as cultural critics. This study highlights the coherence of realist thought while pointing out the paradoxes upon which it is based. It situates realism in its historical context and reveals realism's relationship to explicit political and cultural values. It concludes that at their core, the realists were moralists; and realism was the entity through which they reconciled morality and power.

Abstract in spanish En este trabajo se discuten los dilemas éticos, médicos y legales que surgen como consecuencia de la decisión del paciente de no aceptar transfusiones de sangre por motivos religiosos o personales. En las situaciones límites, es decir cuando la frontera entre la vida y la muerte es estrecha, la transfusión puede significar la diferencia entre sobrevivir o morir. Se reflexiona acerca de la implicación ética, legal y jurisprudencial en Venezuela, en pacientes quienes (more) por razones personales o religiosas no aceptan las transfusiones sanguíneas, en situaciones cuando la posibilidad de muerte es elevada si el paciente no es transfundido. Abstract in english This paper discusses the ethical, medical and legal dilemmas that arise when a patient decides not to accept blood transfusions for religious and personal reasons. In limit situations, that is, when there is a narrow border between life and death, a transfusion can mean the difference between surviving and dying. The study reflects on the ethical, legal and jurisprudential implications in Venezuela for patients who, for personal or religious reasons, do not accept blood transfusions in situations when the possibility of death is high if the patient is not transfused.

This master’s thesis compares the OECD transfer pricing recommendations with the transfer pricing rules of the US. The main focus is the ethical pharmaceutical industry and intangible property, in particular marketing intangibles. The Glaxo case is used to illustrate how the US takes advantage of ar...

In this paper, I analyse talk about ethical and environmental food consumption recorded from four interviews and four focus groups, the majority in Edinburgh. This empirical study was conducted in the light of the increased emphasis by government and NGOs on individual responsibility for tackling g...

The complications associated with acquiring and storing whole blood for transfusions have launched substantial efforts to develop a blood substitute. The history of these efforts involves a complicated mixture of science, ethics, and business. This review focuses on clinical trials of the three hemo...

Current technology provides counseling center clinicians regular and immediate access to the students they work with via social networking. Focusing on Facebook in particular, this article discusses the opportunities and challenges this access creates and specifically explores how utilization of ethical, clinical, and cultural lenses might affect decisions about Facebook use, with particular emphasis on consideration of appropriate ethical principles and standards. The authors encourage counseling center staff members and trainees to consult with one another regarding use of Facebook and offer specific scenarios for engaging in discussions about this topic. The article concludes with guidelines for making decisions related to social networking.

As the demographic transformation of the U.S. population continues, the challenges of multicultural and diversity-based considerations remain a central focus, as does the need to incorporate cultural competencies into the practice of rehabilitation. The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification's 2010 "Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors" offers guidance for the practice of professional conduct and ethical decision making when one is working with individuals from culturally diverse groups and backgrounds. The revised code sets the expectation that the culturally competent rehabilitation counselor will develop interventions and services that are congruent with the client's values and cultural context. (Contains 1 table.)

Abstract Psychologists working in Russia's cities have found it both desirable and profitable to offer -psychological education- to the children of the elite. I examine two characterizations of this work-as a form of neoliberal subjectivation and as a post-Soviet project focused on progressive sociopolitical reform. Exploring the tensions between them illuminates the historical specificity of self-work in Russia, its relation to commerce and biopolitics, and its political ambiguity. I conclude that studies of governmentality that attend to both subjectivation as an ethical practice and social history can effectively render capitalist complicity and ordinary ethics in the same frame.

Building on other models of longitudinal integrated clerkships (LIC), the University of Alberta developed its Integrated Community Clerkship with guiding principles of continuity of care, preceptor and learning environment. Professionalism is an important theme in medical education. Caring is important in professional identity formation and an ethic of caring is a moral framework for caring. This study explored the development of an ethic of caring in an LIC using empathy, compassion and taking responsibility as descriptors of caring. Through a hermeneutic phenomenological study, the authors focused on students? accounts of being with patients. Following an iterative process of successive analyses and explorations of the relevant literature, sensitizing concepts related to physician identi...

Weather, climate, and flood predictions are incorporated into human decisions in a wide variety of situations, including decisions related to hazardous hydrometeorological events. This article examines ethical aspects of such predictions and decisions, focusing on the case of the 1997 Red River flood in Grand Forks, North Dakota and East Grand Forks, Minnesota (US). The analysis employs a formal ethical framework and analytical method derived from medical and business ethics. The results of the analysis highlight issues related to forecast generation, communication of forecast meaning and uncertainty, responsibility for the use of forecasts in decision making, and trade-offs between the desire for forecast certainty and the risk of missed events. Implications of the analysis for the broade...

As scientists and practitioners, behavior analysts must make frequent decisions that affect many lives. Scientific principles have been our guide as we work to promote effective action across a broad spectrum of cultural practices. Yet scientific principles alone may not be sufficient to guide our decision making in cases with potentially conflicting outcomes. In such cases, values function as guides to work through ethical conflicts. We will examine two ethical systems, radical behaviorism and functional contextualism, from which to consider the role of values in behavior analysis, and discuss potential concerns. Finally, we propose philosophical pragmatism, focusing on John Dewey's notions of community and dialogue, as a tradition that can help behavior analysts to integrate talk about values and scientific practices in ethical decision making. PMID:22478484

Introduction: More than any other allograft, the allotransplantation of the face has a symbolic character, which raises a large number of questions. The objective of this article is to make an analysis through a survey carried out among French surgeons. Methods: A file of 909 e-mail addresses of surgeons was created so as to send out a questionnaire regarding 10 ethical issues. Results: Beyond the technical prowess, the surgeons ethical reflection initially focused on the notion of consent to donation and care. They attached equal importance to all ethical questions. They spontaneously raised the issue of over-mediatization of these first transplants and the place of the transplant surgeons and their patients in the medical information. Conclusion: Over two thirds of the surgeons attached ...

This article focuses on tracing and extending Michel Foucault?s contributions to the philosophy of technology. At first sight his work on power seems the most relevant. In his later work on subjectivation and ethics technology is absent. However, notably by recombining Foucault?s work on power with his work on subjectivation, does his work contribute to solving pertinent problems in current approaches to the ethics of technology. First, Foucault?s position is compared to critical theory and Heidegger, and associated with the approach of ?technical mediation? (Latour, Ihde, Verbeek). Next, a detailed study of Discipline and Punish, results in the identification of two distinct ?figures of technical mediation?. Finally, Foucault?s later work on ethics and subjectivation is employed to elabor...

Worldwide, there is a growing expectation that teachers will act in a "professional" manner. Professionalism, in this regard, includes identification of a unique body of occupational knowledge, adherence to desirable standards of behaviour, processes to hold members to account and commitment to what the profession regards as morally right or good. In other words, as ethical conduct. Teaching ethically involves making reasoned decisions about what to do in order to achieve the most good for learners. Often, this involves a complex interplay between current context, past experience and personal beliefs and values. However, teacher education and accountability frameworks typically give priority to the "practical rationality" of planning, delivery and assessment of the official curriculum, not the "value rationality" involved in exploring the ethics of teaching in difficult practical circumstances. An aspirational code of ethics for teachers was recently developed by the New Zealand Teachers Council. The authors were part of a group commissioned to design and deliver a single professional development workshop for teachers to raise awareness about the code. This article focuses on the challenges of developing a workshop that both informs and educates teachers about ethics.

The recent debate about justice and responsibility increasingly tries to accommodate a new type of agentive situation where local short-term actions have global long-term consequences, due to the action’s embedding in complex interaction networks. Currently the debate is shifting focus from the spatial to the temporal dimension of such wide-scope results of individual actions. This shift from ‘global ethics’ to ‘intergenerational ethics’ and, in particular, ‘climate ethics’ requires some new analytical concepts, however. In this paper we provide a definition of wide-scope responsibility geared to articulate our moral concerns about emergent effects in complex systems, such as climate change. Working from Iris Marion Young’s “social connection model of responsibility”, we present a notion of shared ecological responsibility with global and intergenerational scope. We show that our account is not affected by the so-called non-identity objection to intergenerational ethics. Since we work from an action-theoretic rather than normative perspective, our account is ‘ethically parametrized’ in the sense that it can be combined with different conceptions of structural and intergenerational justice. In conclusion we illustrate this point and show how the account may be used to support a concrete climate policy proposal: the “Greenhouse Development Rights Framework.”

INTRODUCTION: Prenatal counselling in case of fetal obstructive uropathies still represents a clinical dilemma, despite ultrasound detection of lower urinary tract obstruction has greatly advanced during recent years as well as fetal intervention techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of the relevant literature on the topic was performed, with a special focus on the role of antenatal ultrasound, in utero treatment and prognosis. CONCLUSIONS: A clinico-diagnostic flow chart was developed, with the specific aim of aiding health care givers in the clinical management and the parental decision-making process. PMID:23138754

The authors assume that it is necessary to find a set of solutions to the crucial issues concerning the relation between the global environment and the sustainable human society. Based on the assumption, the authors have been developing man-environment-society system models to simulate the characteristic phenomena related to the issue. This paper describes one of the models focusing on a social dilemma that actions rationally performed to make individual's indoor thermal environment better bring about worse environment against the rational decision. Some results of the case study simulations with the purpose to find some crews to deal with the issues are also shown.   

This paper examines decline in cocoa production at three historical moments: Trinidad in the early 18th century, Brazil in the first half of the 20th century, and Ghana in the recent transition from colonialism to independence. In each, decline followed promising expansion. Conventional explanations have been based on biological, agronomic, and market factors. Following a commodity systems approach, we use the extant literature to focus in addition on labor control dilemmas and the consequences of state action and inaction. Throughout, use of the cocoa commodity system as the unit of analysis exposes important commonalities related to power, constraint, and motivation.

Abstract in portuguese O presente artigo discute questões acerca das intersecções entre a psicologia e a bioética. Muitos dos dilemas envolvendo a psicologia já são enfrentados por profissionais que atuam na saúde. Porém há aspectos teóricos importantes a serem considerados no estudo da psicologia hoje, como os dilemas morais comuns ao desenvolvimento humano em meio aos avanços tecnológicos tais como reprodução assistida, seleção de sexo, terminalidade, mas não somente estes. C (more) onsideraremos também como pertencentes ao campo da ética e da bioética as tarefas evolutivas do ser humano como a opção ou não pela maternidade/paternidade e as condições psíquicas e ambientais para esta decisão, entre outras. Dessa forma, propomos o diálogo entre bioética e psicologia no sentido de aproximar dois conhecimentos no intuito de repensar posturas e visões de mundo do profissional que atua diretamente com o humano. Abstract in english This article presents a discussion about questions surrounding the intersections between psychology and bioethics. Many dilemmas involving psychology are already being faced by professionals working with health. Although there are important theoretical aspects to be considered in the study of psychology today, such as the moral dilemmas common to human development in the middle of technological advances, like assisted reproduction, gender selection, terminality and others (more) , but not only those. We also consider as pertaining to the fields of ethics and bioethics the evolutionary tasks of human beings, such as the option for maternity/paternity, and the mental and environmental conditions to these decisions, among others. That said, we suggest the dialogue between bioethics and psychology hoping to approach two areas of knowledge by aiming to reconsider the attitudes and the world views of professionals working directly with the humane.

Abstract in spanish La investigación genética ha tenido una enorme expansión en recientes décadas, con repercusiones terapéuticas aún inciertas. El análisis bioético tradicional de las complejas prácticas genéticas ha sido insuficiente por sostenerse en la ética de la investigación y en la bioética de corte principialista. Los problemas éticos más importantes de la genética son de orden colectivo y deben ser abordados por una reflexión ético-social cuyo enfoque es más ampl (more) io que la agenda interpersonal del principialismo. Temas como exploraciones genéticas, cuestiones patrimoniales, manipulación génica y asignación de recursos, deben todos ser sometidos a un pensamiento inspirado en los requerimientos de la ciudadanía, en el bien común y en la definición del rol del Estado en fiscalizar actividades genéticas y en proteger a la población. El objetivo del estudio es mostrar cómo el amplio campo de la ética y de la genética tiene una mayor relevancia en el campo social que en el clínico. El objetivo del trabajo es señalar que la bioética principialista ha enfatizado los problemas éticos individuales que nacen con la intervención genética, a costa de marginar sus importantes repercusiones sociales. Abstract in english Genetics research has shown enormous developments in recent decades, although as yet with only limited clinical application. Bioethical analysis has been unable to deal with the vast problems of genetics because emphasis has been put on the principlism applied to both clinical and research bioethics. Genetics nevertheless poses its most complex moral dilemmas at the public level, where a social brand of ethics ought to supersede the essentially interpersonal perspective o (more) f principlism. A more social understanding of ethics in genetics is required to unravel issues such as research and clinical explorations, ownership and patents, genetic manipulation, and allocation of resources. All these issues require reflection based on the requirements of citizenry, consideration of common assets, and definition of public policies in regulating genetic endeavors and protecting the society as a whole Bioethics has privileged the approach to insdividual ethical issues derived from genetic intervention, thereby neglecting the more salient aspects of genetics and social ethics.

Abstract in portuguese Tentamos fundamentar a necessidade de ampliar o campo de visão da Bioética na América Latina, desde a ética clínica a uma bioética social, que aborde os dilemas éticos institucionais, da saúde pública, políticas e reformas dos sistemas de saúde, e legislação. Para isso, é necessário dar conteúdo aos princípios da bioética, e completar com a visão da ética do cuidado, do personalismo e o comunitarismo, a interpretação mais estrita do principialismo ba (more) seada na ética dialógica. A proposta é tripla. Por uma parte, incorporar ao debate acadêmico em Bioética estes aspectos de sua dimensão institucional, com a ética das organizações de saúde, e social. Por outra, desenvolver o sistema da Bioética de princípios, com princípios que se completem, que possam ser utilizados nas resoluções de casos e toma de decisões, de forma que incorporem también os aspetos pessoais, institucionais e sociais. Em terceiro lugar, utilizar os meios que já estão explícitos nas legislações de muitos dos países e que formam parte dos objetivos de promover a ética institucional e social, propostos para os Comitês Assistenciais de Ética, os Comitês de Ética de Pesquisa, e as Comissões Nacionais de Bioética. Abstract in spanish Se intenta fundamentar la necesidad de ampliar el campo de visión de la Bioética en Latinoamérica, desde la ética clínica a una bioética social, que aborde los dilemas éticos institucionales, de la salud pública, políticas y reformas de los sistemas de salud, y legislación. Para ello, es necesario dar contenido a los principios de la bioética, y complementar con la visión de la ética del cuidado, del personalismo y el comunitarismo, la interpretación más es (more) tricta del principialismo basada en la ética dialógica. La propuesta es triple. Por una parte, incorporar al debate académico en Bioética estos aspectos de su dimensión institucional, con la ética de las organizaciones de salud, y social. Por otra, desarrollar el sistema de la Bioética de principios, con preceptos complementarios que puedan ser utilizados en las resoluciones de casos y toma de decisiones, de forma que incorporen también los aspectos personales, institucionales y sociales. En tercer lugar, utilizar los medios que ya están explicitados en las legislaciones de muchos de los países y que forman parte de los objetivos de promover la ética institucional y social, propuestos para los Comités Asistenciales de Ética, los Comités de Ética de Investigación, y las Comisiones Nacionales de Bioética. Abstract in english An attempt is made to back up the need to extend the scope of Bioethics in Spain and Latin America, from clinical ethics to social bioethics, comprising the institutional ethical dilemmas, as well as those of public health, policies and reforms of health systems, and legislation. For this purpose, it is necessary to provide the principles of bioethics with content, and supplement it with the vision of the ethics of care, personalism and communitarism, the strictest interp (more) retation of principialism based upon dialogic ethics. The proposal is three-fold. First, incorporate these social dimension aspects in the academic debate of Bioethics. Second, develop the Bioethics system of principles, with supplementary principles that may be used in resolving cases and decision-making processes, so that they can also incorporate the personal, institutional and social aspects. Third, use the means clearly stated in the legal regulations of many countries, which are part of the goals of promoting institutional and social ethics, proposed for the Ethics Assistance Committees, Research Ethics Committees, and National Bioethics Commissions.

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Spivak's 'Can the Subaltern Speak?' emerged in and helped shape a specific moment in the development of literary theory in the US, and it continues to challenge Native American studies in significant ways. Spivak captures in Gramscian terms the dilemma that scholars and intellectuals from the colonized world face in positing their work as engaging in meaningful change of the conditions of colonization. Her reflexive approach becomes most meaningful for Native studies when the indigenous world is understood as featuring two forms of subalternity, one focused on economic depravation, the other more focused on the maintenance of the social and cultural forms of traditional cultural practitioners. The conclusion focuses on one place where intellectuals meet up with both these forms of subalter...

Abstract in portuguese A análise clínica do comportamento enfoca a transformação (e não a representação), a interação (e não a causalidade), a ação (e não o ser). Por estas escolhas, a análise clínica precisa de uma ética da relação entre pessoas (e não de uma ética da profissão como entidade). Este ensaio sugere a viabilidade de uma ética behaviorista radical para a atuação clínica. Explora-se esta possibilidade a partir dos primórdios da filosofia nominalista, das id (more) éias de Buridan e das reflexões de autores behavioristas radicais. A leitura das interações sociais pelo conceito de contingência tem implicações para a compreensão do sentimento e do seu papel de referência na ética. É uma visão necessariamente complexa porque a relação terapêutica se constrói no seio de múltiplos contextos, como o da cultura, o da política de saúde, o da economia, o do universo restrito da vida pessoal do cliente e do terapeuta. Abstract in english Clinical behavior analysis, in opting for radical behaviorism, focuses on transformation (and not on representation), on interaction (and not on causality), on action (and not on being). Because of these choices, clinical behavior analysis needs an ethic of relating (and not an ethic of the profession as an entity). This essay suggests that a radical behaviorist ethic for clinical practice is possible. The possibility of such an ethic is explored from the beginnings of no (more) minalist philosophy, the ideas of Buridan and the reflections of radical behaviorist authors. An analysis of social interactions through the concept of contingency has implications for the understanding of feelings and their role of reference in ethics. This behavioristic ethic will necessarily be complex because the therapeutic relation is constructed within multiple contexts, like that of culture, health politics, economy, the restricted universe of the client's life and that of the therapist.

Uncertainty about ethics has been a major factor in societal rejection of biotechnology. Six factors help create a societal "perfect storm" regarding ethics and biotechnology: Social demand for ethical discussion; societal scientific illiteracy; poor social understanding of ethics; a "Gresham's Law for Ethics;" Scientific Ideology; vested interests dominating ethical discussion. How this can be remedied is discussed.

Psychiatric genetic research may eventually render possible psychiatric genetic testing. Whereas all genetic knowledge has certain characteristics raising ethical, legal, and social issues, psychiatric genetic knowledge adds more controversial issues. Ethical principles have been proposed as a guide in this field, but the optimal utilization of genetic testing has also been recognized to depend on knowledge of the potential consumers' attitudes. To provide knowledge to inform the public debate on mental illness and genetics, and the future conducting of psychiatric genetic testing and counseling, we surveyed attitudes toward psychiatric genetic testing among 397 patients with a psychiatric diagnosis, 164 of their relatives and 100 medical and psychology students. The results showed widespread interest in psychiatric genetic testing of self and child, but less support for prenatal testing. Psychiatric and somatic genetic testing attracted the same amounts of accept. General attitudes toward access to psychiatric genetic testing and information revealed substantial support for bioethical principles of autonomy and privacy. However, questions describing more specific situations revealed contradictions mirroring the bioethical dilemmas recognized in the field and variations in attitudes between groups with different levels of knowledge of genetics, different kinds of experience with mental illness, and different motives and preconceptions regarding psychiatric genetics. The contradictions and differences in attitudes among possible future users and providers of psychiatric genetic testing and counseling indicate ambivalence, insecurity, and perceived lack of knowledge in relation to psychiatric genetics. These results should inform further research and the future integration of psychiatric genetics into practice. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Udgivelsesdato: 2008-Apr-05

Abstract in portuguese Este artigo propõe um "método" fenomenológico de compreensão hermenêutica, que parte de um paradigma antropológico e ético e permite sistematizar e interpretar diversas situações em três fazes: fundamentação, valorização ( social, técnica, jurídica e bioética) e conclusões e implicações do dilema. O esquema constitui um caminho racional que facilita a todos os atores chegar ao objeto próprio de sua disciplina desde uma pluralidade de posturas de forma (more) integral e objetiva. Estuda e deduz por meio de um processo lógico de concatenação sistêmica de idéias, formas e experiências, respeitando as crenças e culturas presentes e estabelecendo os mínimos éticos. Abstract in spanish Este artículo propone un "método" fenomenológico con comprensión hermenéutica, que parte de un paradigma antropológico y ético y permite sistematizar e interpretar diversas situaciones en tres estadios: planteamiento, valoración (social, técnica, jurídica y bioética) y conclusiones e implicaciones del dilema. El esquema constituye un camino racional que facilita a todos los actores llegar al objeto propio de su disciplina desde una pluralidad de posturas y en f (more) orma integral y objetiva. Estudia y deduce por medio de un proceso lógico de concatenación sistémica de ideas, formas y experiencias, respetando las creencias y culturas presentes y estableciendo los mínimos éticos. Abstract in english The author of this report offers a phenomenological method together with an hermeneutic comprehension which stems from an anthropological and ethic paradigm that allows to systematize and interpret different situations in three stadiums: planning, appraisal (social, technique, juridical and bioethics') and the dilemma's conclusions and implications. The scheme constitutes a rational way that helps all actors to arrive at the proper object of their discipline starting from (more) a plurality of positions and in an integral and objective manner. It studies and derives, by means of a logical process of a systemic concatenation of ideas, forms and experiences, respecting the beliefs and cultures that are present and establishing the minimum ethics.

This article serves as a lead-in to the special issue and reflects on the relationship between globalization, ethics, and the 'war on terror'. It argues that while globalization studies have focused substantially on the marketization of life, including the realms of politics and culture, the current 'war on terror' phase has directed focus in theory and practice back to traditional state-centred security concerns and critical investigation of state-citizen relations, notably in the context of multicultural societies. The article discusses three key areas of ethics. First those connected to the terminology of 'war' in this context and the applicability of just war thinking; second, the challenge of such rhetoric to core values of liberal democracies, such as equality and impartiality; and t...

Market-based solutions have become an important focus for international strategies to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide. The commodification of carbon through markets, however, raises a number of questions about the ethics and justice implications of these approaches. They are tied up in a calculative, managerial approach to the environment, which looks for cost-effectiveness, just allocations of carbon allowances and equitable international frameworks. In this paper and using an extended case study of personal carbon trading I argue that current debates have insufficiently focused on the ethical assumptions that underlie these solutions. A universal system of carbon monitoring may not offer the kinds of political debates and imaginations of the good life that will be required for a more ...

The effects of genetic knowledge beyond the scientific community depend on processes of social construction of risks and benefits, or perils and possibilities, which are different in different communities. In a globalized world, new developments affect societies not capable of technically replicating them and unaware of the very nature of the scientific process. Moral and legal consequences, however, diffuse rapidly and involve groups and persons with scant or no knowledge about the way scientific concepts are developed or perfected. Leading genomics researchers view their field as developing after a sharp break with that worldwide social movement of the 20´s and 30´s known as eugenics and its most radical expression in the Nazi efforts to destroy life “not worth living”. Manipulation, prejudice and mistrust, however, pervade non-expert accounts of current research. Researchers claim that the new knowledge will have a positive impact on medicine and serve as a foundation for informed social policy. Both types of applications depend on informed communities of non-scientists (physicians, policymakers), whose members may well differ on what constitutes burden and what is benefit, depending upon professional socialization and cultural bias. ELSI projects associated with genomic research are notable for the lack of minorities involved and for the absence of comparative analysis of data reception in different world communities. It may be contended also that the critical potential of philosophical or ethical analyses is reduced by their being situated within the scientific process itself and carried out by members of the expert community, thus reducing independence of judgment. The majority of those involved in such studies, by tradition, experience, and formative influences, share the same worldview about the nature of moral dilemmas or the feasibility of intended applications. The global effects of new knowledge when combined with other cultural or religious traditions are thus unknown. These effects are interesting on two accounts. First, even if underdeveloped countries cannot replicate the technical aspects of research, their influence on social practices is not kept within geographical or language barriers. The way they are handled in developed countries may become part of resistances to “ethical imperialism”. Second, these advances have economic consequences. Their full understanding and the creation of a scientific literacy essential for sound ethical analysis demand the creation of “receptive capacity” in developing countries. The morality of genomics research and its applications can be analyzed from two main vantage points. Some traditions stress the ethics of convictions (in Max Weber´s terms, Gesinnungsethik) while others rely on the ethics of responsibility (Verantwortungsethik). In different forms, the latter deals with the consequences of social action, scientific research in this case, and may or may not be related to utilitarian considerations. It may be hypothesized that convictions, mostly of a religious nature, dominate the argumentative preferences in Latin countries and continental European traditions which rely on virtues while responsibility is associated with a discourse based on rights prevalent in countries following the Anglo-Saxon pattern of thought. This finds expression in different legal systems (common law versus codes) and in the language used for deliberation and moral reasoning. Although results of US-based ELSI research may not be transferable to other cultural and economic contexts, they impact other societies and serve as models. Rarely do they apply completely in other settings. In a globalized world, both appropriate understanding of the scientific enterprise and its ethical or economic sustainability demand empirical analysis of the patterns of thought, main beliefs, and reactions toward the new knowledge and its applications. Anecdotal accounts show that expectations may be misleading and inadequate knowledge prevents appropriate appraisal of burdens and benefits in dif

This article focuses on repair or replacement mortars for historical buildings. Both the decision process and questions arising are dealt with, in order to better define and illustrate technical requirements for mortars to be used for the repair or restoration of monuments and historic buildings (masonry mortars, plasters, renders???). The article summarizes a longer document, meant to help professionals in their decisions on the interventions, taking into account aspects, which are ranging from the ethics of restoration to the technical requirements.

The possiblity of cloning human beings introduced a lot of issues in our ethical and legal frameworks. In this paper, we will put the focus into the necessary changes in the concept of embryo that our legal systems will have to implement in order to face the new situation. The description of the embryo as a group of cells able to develop into a human being will be defended here as the best way of doing so. PMID:19334406

This work seeks to offer a broad perspective and important practical insights into economic institutions, focusing on dynamic issues such as entrepreneurship and ethical leadership, which are crucial to institutional growth. Mark Casson analyzes economic institutions from an integrated social science perspective. This perspective is based on the rational action principle of mainstream economics, modified to allow for endogenous preferences and information costs. Combining plausible assumptions with analytical rigour, it offers insights into a range of issues, including the growth of firms, fam

This article examines the reflexive, biosocial nature of genomic meaning making around race, drawing on discourse analysis of 732 articles on genomics and race published from the years 1986-2010, in-depth interviews with 36 of the world's most elite genomics researchers, interviews with 15 critics, policymakers, and trainees involved in debates over race, and participant observation at a core genotyping facility that specializes in ancestry estimation. I reveal how biomedical researchers identify with, value, and make sense of the taxonomies they construct. My analysis goes beyond a consideration of instrumental rationales to analyze the experiential and political motivations that shape how researchers get involved in racial ethical dilemmas. I theorize taxonomic practice as a reflexive form of biosociality, a conscious shaping of social notions about biology and race to produce a future that researchers themselves want to live in. I demonstrate how reflexive biosociality paradoxically leads researchers to advance social explanations for race while investing in genomics as a solution to racial quandaries. PMID:21840637

Abstract in spanish La práctica de conductas autoritarias y de poder constituye una situación de alerta y de amenaza en la relación médico-paciente. Esta situación se presenta con cierta frecuencia y denuncia diversos dilemas éticos y bioéticos que llaman a la discusión y reflexión. Como una forma de sensibilizar dichas prácticas se realiza la siguiente revisión bibliográfica en pro de una atención humanizada y respetuosa de las personas y su dignidad. Por lo que el objetivo de (more) este trabajo es valorar algunas de las repercusiones de la autoridad y del poder sobre la conducta en salud del paciente en la práctica médica. Abstract in english The practice of authoritarian and power conducts constitutes a threat and alert situation in the relation doctor-patient. This situation occurs with certain frequency and it reflects several ethical and bioethical dilemmas that call to an analysis and discussion. As a way of raising awareness of such practices, the following bibliographic revision is carried out, in favour of a respectful and humanized attention to people and their dignity. Therefore, this work aims at evaluating some of the consequences caused by authority and power on patients in medical practice.

Abstract in spanish A nivel mundial, la catarata constituye la principal causa de ceguera evitable. Su alta prevalencia como causa de ceguera está muy asociada a la pobreza. La cirugía es el único tratamiento verdaderamente efectivo y constituye el proceder quirúrgico más practicado en países desarrollados, pues presenta una adecuada relación coste-beneficio. Contradictoriamente, los estudios de base poblacional efectuados en los últimos años han revelado que existen resultados insa (more) tisfactorios en el 40 % de las operaciones de catarata efectuadas en países subdesarrollados. Se exponen en este trabajo algunos elementos históricos y tecnológicos relacionados con este tipo de operación. Se analizan las principales causas de los resultados insatisfactorios y los dilemas éticos asociados a los mismos. Se recomienda la necesidad de evaluar los impactos de las operaciones de catarata como tecnologías sanitarias con efectos positivos y negativos tras su aplicación. Abstract in english Worldwide, cataract is the leading cause of avoidable blindness. Its high prevalence as a cause of blindness is associated to poverty. Surgery is the only effective treatment and most performed surgical procedure in developed countries, with an adequate cost-benefit relationship. Contradictorily, recently conducted population-based surveys have revealed unsatisfactory outcomes in 40 % of cataract surgeries practiced in developing countries. Besides dealing with some of th (more) e historical and technological issues related to cataract surgery, the author analyzes the main causes and ethical dilemma associated to those outcomes, and recommends evaluating the impacts of cataract surgery as a technology with positive or negative effects after its application.

Abstract in portuguese Distanásia ou qualquer um dos seus sinónimos é uma consequência do excesso terapêutico em relação ao prognóstico esperado. A obstinação terapêutica é um dos dilemas éticos mais angustiantes no quotidiano de medicina intensiva, apesar de a sua apreciação encontrar um suporte normativo em várias instituições e organizações. A manutenção ou não suspensão da ventilação mecânica numa determinada circunstância de fim de vida pode ser considerado como (more) um exemplo paradigmático de obstinação terapêutica. A compreensão desta postura passa pela análise e reflexão do acto médico à luz de alguns conceitos ético-filosóficos. Abstract in english Dysthanasia or any of its synonyms is a consequence of excessive technical science, without any reasonable chance of achieving a therapeutic benefit for the patient. Medical futility is a distressing ethical dilemma of intensive care medicine. Its recognition has led to a precept support in various institutions and organizations. Not withdrawing or withholding mechanical ventilation in certain circumstances can be considered as a paradigmatic model of medical futility. The understanding of this posture implies a philosophical approach and reflexion of medical practice.

Attachment theory and therapy have established themselves as major constructs in foster care and adoption practice. The depth of the explanatory power of attachment theory and research have done much to both identify the source of developmental difficulties in adopted and fostered children, and of the significant changes that can be made when these children are placed with 'autonomously' classified carers. However, the power of the concept has also led to a proliferation of ideas, particularly therapeutic models that can, in some cases, stray a long way from the core of what is effective, safe and ethical clinical practice. Holding therapy is one of these models. The British Association for Adoption and Fostering developed a position statement on this practice, setting it within a broader framework of assessment and intervention. But like the model, the development of the position statement became controversial in its development. The article charts some of the critical issues and identifies the very significant dilemmas for parents and carers caught up in the maelstrom of challenging behaviours and disturbing feelings. The conclusion turns to one of the key components of an attachment-based idea: The critical importance of finding the space to think and to feel what the child is communicating without resorting to dangerous retaliation. PMID:17533938

Abstract in portuguese Este artigo apresenta a importância da biodiversidade, da biotecnologia a da saúde e discute vários aspectos dos problemas biológicos, ambientais e o dilema ético, relacionados com a expansão e a exploração dos recursos naturais em razão das quais espécies de plantas e animais têm sido extintas. Por outro lado, o conhecimento da biodiversidade tem possibilitado a identificação e a utilização de novos recursos naturais para a melhoria da vida do homem neste (more) planeta. É importante que nossos pesquisadores se envolvam na luta pela preservação do ecossistema tropical. Os programas de exploração da biodiversidade devem estar baseados em sólidos conhecimentos científicos e favorecer ecológica e economicamente a sociedade. Abstract in english This article presents the significance of biodiversity, biotechnology and health and discusses many aspects of biological and environmental problems as well as the ethical dilemma related to expansion and exploitation of natural resources, which promoted a decline in biological diversity. In addition, knowledge of biodiversity has allowed for identification and use of new natural resources, useful for improving the quality of human life on Earth. It is important that our (more) researchers engage themselves in the fight for preservation of the tropical ecosystem. Programs to exploit biodiversity must be based on solid scientific knowledge and favour society both ecologically and economically.

This paper extends the burgeoning interest in emotion, health and place by investigating the emotionally complex experiences of aging and care in rural settings. Featuring a thematic analysis of 44 semi-structured interviews and two focus groups with older people and their carers in rural Ontario (Canada) we examine the importance and implications of emotions within and across multiple scales at which care relationships, expectations and responsibilities are negotiated. With the aim of broadening the discussion surrounding geographical dimensions of ethical care, our approach draws on feminist care ethics to understand the multifaceted ways in which emotions shape and are shaped by experiences of aging and caring at the interpersonal, household and community scales. The findings reveal how emotions are central, yet often-overlooked and even hidden within care relationships among older rural people and their carers. We argue that ethical care is contingent on recognizing and valuing the situated emotions involved in doing care work, sustaining care relationships and asking for care. In doing so, we demonstrate how qualitative research on the emotional geographies of care can contribute to the development of informed policies that are contextually sensitive and, ultimately, have the potential to build more ethical rural conditions of care. PMID:23102752

This article offers a discussion of the connection between technology and values and, specifically, I take a closer look at ethically sound design. In order to bring the discussion into a concrete context, the theory of Value Sensitive Design (VSD) will be the focus point. To illustrate my argument concerning design ethics, the discussion involves a case study of an augmented window, designed by the VSD Research Lab, which has turned out to be a potentially surveillance-enabling technology. I call attention to a "positivist problem" that has to do with the connection between the design context and the use context, which VSD seems to presuppose, and I argue that it is necessary to clearly distinguish between the two, since the designers' intentions do not always correspond with the users' practice; in fact, the relation between design and use is very complex and principally unpredictable. Thus, a design theory must accept that foresight is limited to anticipation rather than prediction. To overcome the positivist problem, I suggest a phenomenological approach to technology inspired by Don Ihde's concept of multistability. This argument, which is general in nature and thus applies to any theory of design ethics, is intended as a constructive criticism, which can hopefully contribute to the further development of design ethics.

Concerns regarding literacy levels in the United States are long standing. Debates have existed for decades regarding the most effective ways to teach reading, especially the polarizing dilemma of how much to focus on decoding versus code-emphasis and whole language instruction. Fortunately, as a result of concentrated research efforts and analyses of the extant literature on teaching reading, perhaps spurred by these debates, we know more now than we ever have about how to teach basic reading skills. However, there is still much work to be done in order to determine which instructional practices are the most effective ways in which to teach children to read. The need for more research focusing on best instructional practices is exacerbated by the well-documented gap between research. Lite...

Abstract in portuguese Objetivou-se descrever as dificuldades relacionadas aos primeiros socorros durante uma olimpíada estudantil e correlacionar a experiência vivida com aspectos técnicos, científicos e éticos recomendados para a atuação do enfermeiro quando da prestação de primeiros socorros. O relato tomou por base a produção de dados no contexto da atuação dos socorristas e de uma oficina de consenso para solucionar dilema ético. Descreve-se o processo de tomada de decisão ? (more) ?tica, os recursos materiais disponíveis, os agravos à integridade física dos atletas e as intervenções executadas. Conclui-se que o esporte tem caráter de medicina preventiva e curativa que exige o compromisso moral dos organizadores de prover os recursos materiais necessários às possíveis intervenções médicas por ocasião de algum dano sofrido pelos atletas. Abstract in spanish Este relato tiene como objetivo identificar las dificultades relacionadas a los primeros socorros realizados a atletas durante una olimpíada estudiantil y correlacionar la experiencia vivida con aspectos técnicos, científicos y éticos recomendados para la actuación del enfermero cuando está prestando los primeros socorros. El presente relato tomó por base la producción de datos en el contexto de la actuación de los socorristas y de un taller que buscaba soluciona (more) r dilema ético haciendo un análisis sobre la práctica de los socorristas. Se describe el proceso de tomada de decisión ética, los recursos materiales disponibles, los agravios a la integridad física dos atletas y las intervenciones ejecutadas. Se concluye que el deporte tiene el carácter de medicina preventiva y curativa que exige el compromiso moral de los organizadores de proveer los recursos materiales necesarios a las posibles intervenciones médicas por ocasión de algún daño sufrido por los atletas. Abstract in english This study aimed to identify the difficulties related to the first aids during one students competition and also it correlates the experience learned regarding technician aspects, cientifics and ethical approaches when the performance of the first-aid nurse. The report was taking into account the production basis regarding the performance of the first aids professionals and a workshop of consensus to solve ethical dilemmas. It was described the taking decision ethical, th (more) e material resources available and also the harms which might affected the physical integrity of the athletes and the interventions executed. It was concluded that the sports has a feature of preventive and curative medicine that demands the moral commitment of the organizers to provide the necessary material resources for occasion of some damage suffered for the athletes.

The tensions between environmental protection and economic growth are critical to future well-being, and it is therefore important to understand how young people conceptualize these tensions. The aim of the present study is to explore students' solutions to the dilemma of economic development and mitigating climate change, with regard to societal responses to the challenge of climate change. The study was conducted in China's Green Schools. Green School is an international long-term programme with the aim of increasing students' knowledge of environmental issues, and transferring this knowledge into positive actions to affect the wider community. The data were obtained through semi-structured pre- and post-interviews with 15-16-year-old students in three groups (12 students) from Green Schools in the Beijing area. The results show that students' discussions focused exclusively on economic growth and social welfare. Students seem to believe that environmental problems are inevitable, nature is a "box" of resources, and economic development is necessary in order to sustain and even improve nature. Therefore, there is no dilemma between economic development and environmental protection. The paper ends with a discussion on research and implications for teaching climate change. (Contains 1 table, 1 figure, and 7 extracts.)

Most analyses addressing the subject of why states choose to proliferate focus on external motivations, particularly the security dilemma, facing a country`s leaders. This paper concludes that, other factors, such as prestige, regime type and stability, and economic status, can have impact in determining proliferation outcomes. In the case of Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union (NIS), the domestic problems generated by internal conflicts, arms remaining from the Cold War, excess defense industrial capacity, economic difficulties and the breakdown of central authority resulting in a loss of border control and corruption have all made the NIS an extremely fertile ground for weapons proliferation. A more positive `rollback` situation has emerged in Latin America where both Argentina and Brazil have seemingly decided to forgo the acquisition of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. The US must understand the `strategic personality` of each potential proliferation. Not all state behavior can be explained in terms of the security dilemma. One must also keep in mind the complexity of possible motivations. Economic and technological assistance and cooperative efforts at institution-building hold great potential to combating proliferation.

In evolutionary game theory, repeated two-player games are used to study strategy evolution in a population under natural selection. As the evolution greatly depends on the interaction structure, there has been growing interests in studying the games on graphs. In this setting, players occupy the vertices of a graph and play the game only with their immediate neighbours. Various evolutionary dynamics have been studied in this setting for different games. Due to the complexity of the analysis, however, most of the work in this area is experimental. This paper aims to contribute to a more complete understanding, by providing rigorous analysis. We study the imitation dynamics on two classes of graph: cycles and complete graphs. We focus on three well known social dilemmas, namely the Prisoner's Dilemma, the Stag Hunt and the Snowdrift Game. We also consider, for completeness, the so-called Harmony Game. Our analysis shows that, on the cycle, all four games converge fast, either to total cooperation or total defe...

Human rights legislation pertaining to applications of human genetic science is still lacking at an international level. Three international human rights documents now serve as guidelines for countries wishing to develop such legislation. These were drafted and adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the Human Genome Organization, and the Council of Europe. It is critically important that the international nursing community makes known its philosophy and practice-based knowledge relating to ethics and human rights, and contributes to the globalization of genetics. Nurses have particular expertise because they serve in a unique role at grass roots level to mediate between genetic science and its application to public health policies and medical interventions. As a result, nurses worldwide need to focus a constant eye on human rights ideals and interpret these within social, cultural, economic and political contexts at national and local levels. The purpose of this article is to clarify and legitimate the need for an international declaration on nursing, human rights, human genetics and public health policy. Because nurses around the world are the professional workforce by which genetic health care services and genetic research protocols will be delivered in the twenty-first century, members of the discipline of nursing need to think globally while acting locally. Above all other disciplines involved in genetics, nursing is in a good position to articulate an expanded theory of ethics beyond the principled approach of biomedical ethics. Nursing is sensitive to cultural diversity and community values; it is sympathetic to and can introduce an ethic of caring and relational ethics that listen to and accommodate the needs of local people and their requirements for public health. PMID:16010919

Business ethics may be defined as "the principles, values and standards that guide behavior in the world of business." The importance of ethical awareness in business transactions and education is widely recognized, and evidence shows that ethics education can influence decision making in the workplace. As a result, colleges of business often integrate ethics into the content of courses. Compelling evidence indicates that the study of ethics in college raises the awareness of undergraduate students to ethical concerns. Whatever approach to teaching ethics is utilized, appropriate learning goals for an ethics course would be to raise student awareness of ethics, assist students in recognizing that all decisions have ethical aspects, and provide a framework for ethical analysis. To that end, this article considers a constructivist approach to teaching ethics to undergraduate students that emphasizes active student involvement and allows for the application of ethical concepts and decision making to matters of concern to students. (Contains 95 footnotes.)

This lecture focuses on several ethical issues on psychiatry research and psychiatric practice. The most important issue in ethics is informed consent in both the national guidelines on ethics in genomic study and epidemiological studies determined by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor, Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. They recommend researchers to obtain consent from subjects making free voluntary decisions after they are fully provided with the necessary information and explanation. The guidelines on ethics in genomic study strongly recommend organizing an ethical committee committed by several extramural members from the fields of law, social or human sciences. On the other hand, the guidelines on ethics in epidemiological study provide how to obtain informed consent in detail according to how projects are carried out. Strict requirements of informed consent tend to inhibit medical research conduct, in particular a research on post-mortem brain, which is one of the important research areas for elucidation of pathogenesis and pathophysiology of mental disorders. Recently a new trend to organize a brain bank by donation of the patient who has given consent before death. This is a proper way to collect post-mortem brain overcoming the ethical problems and it is our hope that this trend will develop in our country. Disclosure of medical records to patients is one of the most recent and debated issues in psychiatric practices. In 1999, the Ministry of Health and Welfare started investigations on whether medical records should be disclosed to patients. The report of the committee strongly recommends accelerating the disclosure of medical records. Responding to this report, several medical organizations issued a guideline. Recently, we carried out a questionnaire survey on the disclosure rate of medical records in the psychiatric departments of both medical school hospitals and national mental hospitals, where special committees have been organized to determine the disclosure of the medical records when a patient demands it officially. Contrary to our expectation the rate of disclosure demands was very low in both medical schools and national mental hospitals. The average number was only less than one case in medical schools, and less than 0.5 cases in national mental hospitals. It was speculated that patient requests demanding the disclosure of the records are mostly managed by the doctor in charge without consulting the special committee. Looking back the process of debate on the disclosure of medical records, several important issues, such as notice of diagnosis, informed consent, management of records, standardization of medical records, financial support to establish management system of medical records and so on, remain to be further examined thoroughly. PMID:12481440

A Core Study Text for the ACCA Qualification. The examiner-reviewed P7 Study Text includes everything you need for this paper, including detailed guidance on the exam. The question bank includes questions in the style of the P7 paper, and each chapter contains useful exam focus points and chapter roundups. The Study Text provides an excellent source of the main professional and regulatory aspects of audit and assurance engagements, focusing on ethics and regulation and practice management, before going through the audit and assurance engagement process, and ending with a consideration of curre

A Core Study Text for the ACCA Qualification. The examiner-reviewed F8 Study Text includes everything you need for this paper including detailed guidance on the exam. The question bank includes questions in the style of the F8 paper, and each chapter contains useful exam focus points. The Study Text provides an excellent introduction to the main professional and regulatory aspects of audit and assurance engagements, focusing on ethics and regulation, before going through the external audit process as an example of a key assurance engagement.

The Code of Ethics for Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educators outlines the ethical principles and standards that are derived from childbirth education's core values to assure quality and ethical practice. This article presents a summary of the history of ethics and medical ethics that informs a value...

This paper focuses on experiences from a case study dealing with the Swiss type of a consensus conference called ?PubliForum?? concerning ?Genetic Technology and Nutrition?? (1999). Societal and ethical aspects of genetically modified food meanwhile can be seen as prototypes of topics depending on the involvement of the public through a participatory process. The important role of the lay perspective in this field seems to be accepted in practice. Nevertheless, there is still some theoretical controversy about the necessity and democratic legitimacy of participatory processes in general, and especially about those dealing with technological or environmental problems (sustainable development) concerning society. From an ethical point of view, a lot of heterogeneous problems concerning conte...

Abstract Immense resource allocations have led to great data output in genetic research. Concerning ADHD resources spent on genetic research are less than those spent on clinical research. But there are successful efforts made to increase support for molecular genetics research in ADHD. Concerning genetics no evidence based conclusive results have significant impact on prevention, diagnosis or treatment yet. With regard to ethical aspects like the patients' benefit and limited resources the question arises if it is indicated to think about a new balance of resource allocation between molecular genetics and non-genetics research in ADHD. An ethical reflection was performed focusing on recent genetic studies and reviews based on a selective literature search. There are plausible reasons why ...

Purpose - The aim of this small-scale focus group study is to explore the impact the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine has on attitudes towards HPV, cervical cancer and sexual risk taking amongst university students in the UK. Design/methodology/approach - Participants were recruited through advertisements placed on notice boards throughout the campus of the University of Leeds. The study sampled purposively to obtain two groups of ten men and two groups of ten women. A total of 34 people attended the sessions. The missing participants gave no reason for the absence. Those who agreed to take part were aged 19-24 and were from a range of academic courses. Ethical approval was sought and approved by the Medical School Ethics Committee at the University of Leeds. Findings - Participants saw...

Ethical equitation is nowadays coming into sharp focus in equestrian culture. Concerns surround the ethics of sports based on controlling an animals locomotory responses and in using animals such as horses in sport in general. Anthropomorphically labeled misinterpretations of the responses of trained horses, such as the use of terms like "mad," "lazy," "keen," and "stubborn," may be detrimental to optimal equine welfare. Similarly, the concept of the "equine athlete" may imply an ill-informed teleological explanation of the motives of the horse in sport. Despite problems in identifying the happy horse, rewarding optimal welfare and the absence of critical stress responses in performance horses is an important step forward. Horse racing is the source of many welfare concerns because of the ...

Participant observation is now increasingly used within qualitative health research and has been found to offer opportunities for the collection and synthesis of rich data about health and illness experience. This method, often used over an extended period, enables the researcher to build an in-depth understanding of the research context and can be the basis for the development of relationships between the researcher and the 'researched'. Researcher familiarity in the field, however, can give rise to ethical and practical tensions. This article reports on the ethical and practical challenges of participant observation at a cancer drop-in centre focusing on issues connected to the dual role of the researcher as both volunteer and researcher. It highlights the methodological practice of refl...

Professional organizations regularly review and revise their codes of ethics. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) completed this task in June 2004. At the 2004 national conference, the leadership team, consisting of state presidents, past presidents, and president elects, voted to adopt the changes. These changes, as outlined in Table 1, and the implications of these changes for practitioners working with families and schools are the focus of this article. The table includes the wording from the 1998 version in the left column and the wording from the 2004 version in the right column. For the purposes of this article, only those changes most relevant to family work are included. School counselors are advised to refer to the entire ASCA code to ensure awareness of other changes. Recent changes to the American School Counselor Association ethical codes relevant to working with families are outlined. Implications for school counselors, counselor educators, and other counselors working with school counselors are also indicated.

UNESCO is an intergovernmental organization with 193 Member States. It is concerned with a broad range of issues regarding education, science and culture. It is the only UN organisation with a mandate in science. Since 1993 it is addressing ethics of science and technology, with special emphasis on bioethics. One major objective of the ethics programme is the development of international normative standards. This is particularly important since many Member States only have a limited infrastructure in bioethics, lacking expertise, educational programs, bioethics committees and legal frameworks. UNESCO has recently adopted the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights. The focus of current activities is now on implementation of this Declaration. Three activities are discussed that ...

Medical Education 2012: 46: 349-356 Objectives- This article explores the concept of resilience and its potential relevance to medicine. It also looks at the dimensions of resilience and its ethical importance for effective professional practice, and considers whether a focus on resilience might be useful in medical training. Methods- An applied literature search was conducted across the domains of education, ethics, psychology and sociology to answer the research question: -What is resilience and what might it mean for professional development in medical education?- This article predominantly considers the findings in relation to training in undergraduate and postgraduate settings, although the literature is wide-ranging and findings may be applicable elsewhere. Results- Resilience is a d...

Video games, as technological and cultural artifacts of considerable influence in the contemporary society, play an important role in the construction of identities, just as other artifacts (e.g., books, newspapers, television) played for a long time. In this paper, we discuss this role by considering video games under two concepts, othering and technopoly, and focus on how these concepts demand that we deepen our understanding of the ethics of video games. We address here how the construction of identities within video games involves othering process, that is, processes through which, when signifying and identifying `Ourselves', we create and marginalize `Others'. Moreover, we discuss how video games can play an important role in the legitimation of the technopoly, understood as a totalitarian regime related to science, technology and their place in our societies. Under these two concepts, understanding the ethics of video games goes beyond the controversy about their violence. The main focus of discussion should lie in how the ethics of video games is related to their part in the formation of the players' citizenship. Examining several examples of electronic games, we consider how video games provide a rich experience in which the player has the opportunity to develop a practical wisdom (phronesis), which can lead her to be a virtuous being. However, they can be also harmful to the moral experiences of the subjects when they show unethical contents related to othering processes that are not so clearly and openly condemned as violence, as in the cases of sexism, racism or xenophobia. Rather than leading us to conclude that video games needed to be banned or censored, this argument makes us highlight their role in the (science) education of critical, socially responsible, ethical, and politically active citizens, precisely because they encompass othering processes and science, technology, and society relationships.

A discussion of two contrasting views on the nature and purpose of ethics: the 'unifying' ethics of the Neoplatonic Pagan philosopher Plotinus (204/5-270 CE) as opposed to the 'relational' ethics of the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Assessment of ethical aspects and authorization by ethics committees have become a major constraint for health research including human subjects. Ethical reference values often are extrapolated from clinical settings, where emphasis lies on decisional autonomy and protection of individual's privacy....

This paper analyzes the interplay of policy dilemma in the areas of food security, agricultural subsidies, energy consumption, and the environment in the 'glocalization' process of Sri Lanka. It demonstrates that the domestic agricultural and food sector is intricately interconnected with the global economy and world market forces. While this paper gives a primary focus on domestic rice production and wheat import policies, it further examines the environmental consequences and public health issues that are associated with the process of 'glocalization' as part of globalization. This 'glocalization' has led to a series of intended and unintended externalities for Sri Lanka whose economic integration is irreversibly linked to agricultural and subsidy policies of other food exporting and producing countries of Asia and the United States. (author)

  On the basis of qualitative interviews on 'Energibyen Frederikshavn' (Energy City Frederikshavn), the article reveals various rationales underlying modern consumers' often contradictory opinions and attitudes to climate change and energy consumption. It may seem hard to decide whether the interest in sustainable, alternative sources of energy is conditioned by the soaring price of oil or present threats of climate change. And does it really matter what the motivations are as long as behaviour is changed? The article will discuss the energy discourses produced by the people in the participating focus group in the light of three rather different, theoretical positions. And, finally, we will contextualize the findings with respect to risk society and media including political dilemmas in the case of Denmark.

In Evolutionary Dynamics the understanding of cooperative phenomena in natural and social systems has been the subject of intense research during decades. We focus attention here on the so-called "Lattice Reciprocity" mechanisms that enhance evolutionary survival of the cooperative phenotype in the Prisoner's Dilemma game when the population of darwinian replicators interact through a fixed network of social contacts. Exact results on a "Dipole Model" are presented, along with a mean-field analysis as well as results from extensive numerical Monte Carlo simulations. The theoretical framework used is that of standard Statistical Mechanics of macroscopic systems, but with no energy considerations. We illustrate the power of this perspective on social modeling, by consistently interpreting the onset of lattice reciprocity as a thermodynamical phase transition that, moreover, cannot be captured by a purely mean-field approach.

When someone is criticized for some failure or deficiency, he or she is faced with a dilemma about whether or how to respond. To date, most research on responses to criticism has adopted a communication approach and has focused on general social complaints. The present study instead adopted the perspective of stress and coping and aimed to delineate possible responses to criticism pertaining to one's physical appearance. We investigated the efficacy of three coping styles, namely acceptance, avoidance, and retaliation in explaining emotional reactions towards such criticism, and we additionally controlled for personality characteristics, in particular assertion and harmony beliefs. A sample of Taiwanese university students (N = 300) was surveyed for their coping styles and psycho...

We study the stochastic dynamics of evolutionary games, and focus on the so-called `stochastic slowdown' effect, previously observed in (Altrock et. al, 2010) for simple evolutionary dynamics. Slowdown here refers to the fact that a beneficial mutation may take longer to fixate than a neutral one. More precisely, the fixation time conditioned on the mutant taking over can show a maximum at intermediate selection strength. We show that this phenomenon is present in the prisoner's dilemma, and also discuss counterintuitive slowdown and speedup in coexistence games. In order to establish the microscopic origins of these phenomena, we calculate the average sojourn times. This allows us to identify the transient states which contribute most to the slowdown effect, and enables us to provide an understanding of slowdown in the takeover of a small group of cooperators by defectors: Defection spreads quickly initially, but the final steps to takeover can be delayed significantly. The analysis of coexistence games reve...

The progressive politics of social work is threatened as social workers confront the widening gulf between professional ideals and the realities of their practice within the morally conservative context of neo-liberal risk society. Identifying how to subvert the despondency and despair that such a climate evokes, and being able to connect to an increased sense of professional agency, is urgently needed. This paper provides insight into how this can be achieved by considering how social workers, who participated in an Australian study, determined a moral response that was ‘other’-focused when faced with the dilemma of whether to respond to their clients' or their own sense of being ‘at risk’ within their respective practice contexts. The significance of th...

The study aimed to explore whether evidence-based elementary social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula [Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS)] focused on social problem-solving skills combined with sexual risk prevention lessons would have an impact on preventing the early onset of sexual intercourse. A 4-year longitudinal, randomized, controlled design was employed in which 24 elementary schools were assigned to receive the already in place SEL curriculum (control) or the enhanced PATHS curriculum (intervention) combined with sexual risk prevention lessons during grades 3?6. Social problem-solving skills were assessed in grade 6 through the use of a social problem-solving dilemma and sexual behavior was assessed in grades 6 and 7. Sexual activity rates were 9.1% and 21.1% in t...

This article explores the key normative and strategic pillars of the EU's member-statebuilding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a specific focus on the issue of responsibility. By looking at the attitude of EU policy makers vis-a-vis the reform of the Bosnian constitution, it sheds light on the peculiar 'EU hands-up statebuilding' approach. The ambiguity apparent in the EU officials' tendency to throw their hands up in a denying gesture when called upon to take direct responsibility for political reconciliation and constitutional reform reveals the inherent difficulties for Brussels in resolving the crucial operational dilemmas of statebuilding. Given a certain predisposition of the EU-27 to distance itself from political processes and 'technify' its relationship with the target state, Brus...

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;14:787-791. 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. During the past decades, blood pressure (BP) measurement technique has evolved rapidly from the traditionally manual measuring to fully automatic monitoring. In terms of management of BP, there have been tremendous changes from the controlling of daytime BP, nondipping pattern to nocturnal BP (NBP). Since the focus has turned to NBP, a number of dilemmas of NBP measurement have gradually emerged in clinical practice and research settings, including methods for monitoring NBP, different period definition of nocturnal time, different diagnostic thresholds of abnormal NBP, whether to control abnormal NBP, and how to manage abnormal NBP. Currently, these issues have hindered progress in the appropriate management of hy...

In the beginning was - not the word - but the experience. This phenomenological approach provides the basis for this book, which focuses on how a person-in-situation experiences and constructs meaning from a variety of cultural visual events. This book presents video-based processual methods for researching experiences in a variety of settings ranging from the museum, to news photography, and interactive media. The research led to the development of a set of methodological tools and approaches we term the reflexivity lab. The interaction in the experimental situation between the media and body, dialogue, moods, values and narratives have been investigated qualitatively with more than sixty informants in a range of projects. The processual methodological insights are put into a theoretical perspective and also presented as pragmatic dilemmas. Researching Experiences is relevant not only for students and researchers in media and communication studies but also for practitioners within the fields of media, communication and experience design.

Abstract: Conservation biologists often face the trade-off that increasing connectivity in fragmented landscapes to reduce extinction risk of native species can foster invasion by non-native species that enter via the corridors created, which can then increase extinction risk. This dilemma is acute for stream fishes, especially native salmonids, because their populations are frequently relegated to fragments of headwater habitat threatened by invasion from downstream by 3 cosmopolitan non-native salmonids. Managers often block these upstream invasions with movement barriers, but isolation of native salmonids in small headwater streams can increase the threat of local extinction. We propose a conceptual framework to address this worldwide problem that focuses on 4 main questions. First, are...

ABSTRACT The gestational surrogate - and her economic and educational vulnerability in particular - is the focus of many of the most persistent worries about paid surrogacy. Those who employ her, and those who broker and organize her services, usually have an advantage over her in resources and information. That asymmetry exposes her to the possibility of exploitation and abuse. Accordingly, some argue for banning paid surrogacy. Others defend legal permission on grounds of surrogate autonomy, but often retain concerns about the surrogate. In response to the dilemma of a ban versus bald permission, we propose a `soft law' approach: states should require several hours of education of surrogates - education aimed at informing and enhancing surrogate autonomy.

The ongoing and unfolding relocation of activities is one of the major trends, that calls for attention in the domain of operations management. In particular, prescriptive models outlining: stages of the process, where to locate, and how to establish the new facilities have been studied, while the question of how knowledge to be transferred is captured, deployed and developed has largely been ignored. This is the topic of this paper which focuses particularly on the shop floor activities. Three case studies form the empirical basis for the paper representing different situations with respect to degree of complexity, absorptive capacity and corporate culture. Especially the interaction between the sending and the receiving organizational units and their respective capacities for accomplishing the transfer will be studied. The case studies have given rise to identification of a number of issues and dilemmas to be addressed when transferring manufacturing units.

Across four studies, we explored why a gender gap emerges in negotiator ethics, such that men set lower ethical standards than women. The male pragmatism hypothesis suggests men, more than women, are motivationally biased in setting ethical standards. Experiment 1 demonstrated how negotiations' masculinity implications underlie this gender gap in ethics. Experiment 2 demonstrated that, by viewing ethics from a self-interested perspective, men were more egocentric in their ethical reasoning than women. Experiment 3 demonstrated that, by granting themselves more leniency in ethics than others, men exhibited more moral hypocrisy than women. Experiment 4 examined how implicit negotiation beliefs affect the relation between gender and ethical standards. As hypothesized, fixed beliefs predicted ...

One graduation requirement of the University of Hawaii at Manoa is that students must take an “Ethics Focus” class at the Junior/Senior level. It is to the advantage of departments to offer such classes to majors. I designed and taught a class entitled “Natural Disasters: Geoethics and the Layman” in the Spring of ‘09. The prerequisite was an introductory Geology class. The objectives were: (1) To define ethics, from philosophical points of view and as a personal framework for making decisions about issues related to natural disasters. The Chair of the Philosophy Department assisted in the initial classes to teach the basic principles of ethical thinking. (2) To define what constitutes a “natural” disaster vs what constitutes a disaster brought about by the imposition of human imperatives on the natural world (e.g., to build seawalls or not in efforts to mitigate against beach erosion). (3) To explore a variety of controversial issues at the intersections of two or more of the following: natural processes, human society, and the environment (e.g., forecasting the potential for violent volcanic eruption and understanding the effects of such forecasts on the safety of proximal human populations vs economic disaster caused by evacuation or loss of revenue affected by "false alarms"). (4) To improve the students’ oral communication skills, both as individuals and as members of cooperating groups. (5) To develop and practice using ethically- and scientifically-valid frameworks for reaching decisions about controversial science-based issues. (6) To learn about local organizations, businesses, government agencies, the media and individuals in society who are involved with reacting to and developing solutions for response to these events and their related ethical issues. Students wrote 1- to 2-page journal essays on the issues discussed in class each week and a term paper on issues related to a “natural disaster” of their choice. The 3-credit class brought individuals from academia, private industry, the military, and from civic, state, and federal government agencies into the classroom each week to present information about their experiences, to present reality checks on aspects of actual disaster situations, and to answer student questions. The difficulty was working around guest speakers’ schedules. Student feedback to the class was generally positive, reactions included: “Best part? Getting to talk to real scientists.” ; “You can’t “teach“ ethics, either you have them or you don’t.” ; “I really liked the “student panel” there should be more of them and less lecturing.” ; “This should be a “writing-intensive” class.”