World Congress for Freedom of Scientific Research newsletter -9
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World Congress for Freedom of Scientific Research
the bulletin
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Number 9, February 2010
- Italy´s stem-cell challenge gaining momentum. Nature has recently published another letter by the three scientists Elena Cattaneo, Elisabetta Cerbai and Silvia Garagna who challenged the Italian government in the courts, over its decision to exclude human embryonic stem cells from a ministerial research-funding call for projects studying the biology and therapeutic use of stem cells. “As scientists concerned about inappropriate political interference in scientific affairs, - they wrote - we intend to continue the fight through the courts, even if it takes years”. Luca Coscioni Association raised funds to help the three researchers suing over freedom of research. A hundred researchers from all over the world donated to this fund. Read more.
- Country report on freedom of research: Sweden. The country of the month is Sweden, surveyed by the students of Bryant University, RI, USA. Last update: March 2009. According to the report Sweden allows its citizens significant freedom to artificial reproduction technologies, human embryonic stem cells, end-of-life decisions, abortion and contraception. With few exceptions, Sweden does not outright deny its citizens the specified freedoms. Sweden more often than not allows these freedoms and even supports them financially with varying degrees of patronage. The report is still incomplete in some fields. You can help monitoring freedom of research and cure in your country and in the world. Any contribution will be fully acknowledged. Read more.
- “Towards a Philosophy for Neuroethics: Informed Materialism and the Naturalistic Responsibility” by Kathinka Evers, Associated Professor, Senior Researcher at the Center for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University: “Biologically speaking, no creature with a brain is born value-free; it is neurobiologically predisposed to develop these complex and varied systems of values that enable it to function in its physical and social environments. In this model, the human propensity for passing moral judgment and capacity to perform free and responsible moral choices do not only make logical and practical sense but are biologically unavoidable for adult, healthy individuals”. Read the full text on line (from the proceedings of the Second Meeting of the World Congress for Freedom of Scientific Research).
News in brief:
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