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Published on: October 3, 2016
A precautionary principle for dual use research in the life sciences
Frida Kuhlau1, Anna T Höglund, Kathinka Evers
1Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University, Sweden. frida.kuhlau@crb.uu.se
Bioethics
|July 15, 2009
Summary
The Precautionary Principle is applicable to dual-use life science research, offering a framework to manage potential misuse. Its successful application depends on context, clear guidelines, and shared responsibility between policymakers and researchers.
Area of Science:
- Life Sciences
- Biosecurity
- Research Ethics
Background:
- Life science research presents dual-use concerns, with potential for misuse in creating biological weapons.
- The Precautionary Principle, traditionally applied in environmental and public health, addresses complex human activity consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the applicability and suitability of the Precautionary Principle for dual-use life science research.
- To analyze the core elements of the Precautionary Principle: threat, uncertainty, prescription, and action.
Main Methods:
- Examination of the Precautionary Principle's four central elements within the context of life science research.
- Analysis of arguments against the principle, such as stifling scientific development and vagueness.
Main Results:
- The Precautionary Principle is deemed applicable to dual-use life science research.
- Suitability and success are contingent on threat credibility, information availability, clear responsibilities, and action directives.
Conclusions:
- The Precautionary Principle is a meaningful and useful moral principle for life sciences when applied flexibly and context-dependently.
- It can foster awareness and practical routines to mitigate risks associated with research misuse.
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