| This research program investigates the development and ethics of biomedical and public health technologies, focusing on the relationships between research, clinical medicine, public health practice and societal applications, shortly, the interrelations between laboratory, clinic and society. We focus on the so-called hard technologies like genomics, stem cell research, reproductive technologies, and tissue engineering as well as the so-called soft technologies like screening, health education, health promotion. The boundaries between therapy, prevention and screening are in flux with important shifts in tasks and responsibilities of clinicians and public health professionals. Social and political developments result in growing involvement of citizens, consumers and/or patients in these research and health care practices. The redefinition of professional and public responsibilities with respect to biomedical and health care technologies is put high on the agenda. |
