Expert Bioethics as Professional Discourse and the Case of Embryonic Stem Cells

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

2001

Subject: LCSH

Embryonic stem cells -- Research

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations

Abstract

This article reviews the history of discourse on research using human embryonic stem cells (hES cells). Reports of the hES controversy in major scientific journals show how the terminology and conceptual framing of the debate by experts are narrow and reflect the concerns of a small, professionally invested elite. The hES ceils in all their complexity provide an obvious opportunity to test a new model for the role of bioethics in public debate. Bioethicists must master the tools of public debate, exert influence over the words used in framing the debate and lead the way in making the debate more inclusive of broader audiences.

Comments

Buy the book here.

Publisher Citation

Wolpe, P. and McGee G: Expert Bioethics as Professional Discourse and the Case of Embryonic Stem Cells, in Suzanne Holland, Karen LeBacqz, Laurie Zoloth, Eds., The Human Embryonic Stem Cell Debate. Cambridge, Mass., The MIT Press, 185-196, 2001.

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