Design Bioethics: A Theoretical Framework and Argument for Innovation in Bioethics Research

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Health Sciences
• Human-Centered Technological Design

Background:

• Empirical bioethics research has grown significantly but underutilizes technology-driven methods.
• A gap exists in integrating theoretical bioethics with empirical, technology-based research approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and explore "design bioethics" as an innovative field combining theoretical and methodological advancements.
• To demonstrate the potential of digital tools, specifically digital games, for empirical bioethics research.
• To integrate context, narrative, and embodiment into moral decision-making processes within bioethics.

Main Methods:

• Conceptualizing "design bioethics" as a new area of inquiry.
• Utilizing purpose-built digital games as a technological methodology.
• Aligning digital tools with established theoretical frameworks in bioethics.

Main Results:

• Digital tools, like games, can facilitate situated engagement with complex bioethical questions.
• These tools enable scaled engagement, reaching broader and more diverse participant groups.
• Purpose-built digital tools can access populations traditionally under-represented in bioethics research.

Conclusions:

• "Design bioethics" offers a novel approach to empirical research in the field.
• Digital tools, when rigorously developed and applied, can provide unique insights into bioethical issues.
• This approach holds promise for addressing both novel and existing normative and empirical challenges in bioethics.