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- Title
Synthetic Biology: A Utilitarian Perspective.
- Authors
Smith, Kevin
- Abstract
I examine the positive and negative features of synthetic biology ('SynBio') from a utilitarian ethical perspective. The potential beneficial outcomes from Syn Bio in the context of medicine are substantial; however it is not presently possible to predict precise outcomes due to the nascent state of the field. Potential negative outcomes from Syn Bio also exist, including iatrogenesis and bioterrorism; however it is not yet possible to quantify these risks. I argue that the application of a 'precautionary' approach to Syn Bio is ethically fraught, as is the notion that Syn Bio-associated knowledge ought to be restricted. I conclude that utilitarians ought to support a broadly laissez-faire stance in respect of Syn Bio.
- Subjects
INTELLECT; BIOTECHNOLOGY ethics; BIOMEDICAL engineering; ETHICAL decision making; ETHICS
- Publication
Bioethics, 2013, Vol 27, Issue 8, p453
- ISSN
0269-9702
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1111/bioe.12050