Towards a bioethics of innovation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Ethics
• Science and Technology Studies

Background:

• Biomedical research and clinical practice increasingly emphasize innovation.
• This drive for innovation raises significant ethical, legal, economic, and sociopolitical questions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue for a dedicated "bioethics of innovation" to critically examine biomedical innovation.
• To propose a preliminary framework for this bioethics, drawing on "Responsible Innovation" principles.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of biomedical innovation.
• Case study application using personalized/precision medicine.
• Integration of "Responsible Innovation" policy initiative.

Main Results:

• Biomedical innovation necessitates systematic ethical scrutiny of its goals, processes, and outcomes.
• A framework for a bioethics of innovation can be based on responsible innovation principles.

Conclusions:

• A proactive bioethics of innovation is crucial for navigating the complexities of advancements in biomedicine.
• The proposed framework offers a starting point for critical discourse on responsible biomedical innovation.