Nobel Laureate Sir John Sulston Decries Profits over Patients

Monday, July 07, 2008

JC Jones MA RN

British scientist Sir John Sulston won the 2002 Nobel Prize in Medicine for his work in genetics. He has long advocated that knowledge derived from the Human Genome Project be kept free and open for use by scientists. He opposes privatization of scientific information and patenting genes and genetic information.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Institute of Science, Ethics and Innovation (iSEI) at the University of Manchester, Sulston called for an international biomedical treaty to develop policies about the use of intellectual property and patents. Sulston asks us to consider, Who Owns Science? The mission of iSEI is to examine the social and ethical consequences of advances in technology and science, and how they can be managed in a way that improves the lives of people. Some of the ethical questions iSEI will be exploring are:

• genetic manipulation of species to create hybrids
• genetic selection of human embryos
• disparity in funding in research of healthcare issues in the developing world vs. the developed world
• ethics of healthcare delivery models (from the US based distribution of services by wealth to free access to care)
• climate change
• global trade

Sulston hopes to ensure that global justice and a better future for humanity are ensured along with strides in technology and science.

Labels: ethics, science, Sir John Sulston, technology

Permalink | Email Post

The Healthline Site, its content, such as text, graphics, images, search results, HealthMaps, Trust Marks, and other material contained on the Healthline Site ("Content"), its services, and any information or material posted on the Healthline Site by third parties are provided for informational purposes only. None of the foregoing is a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Healthline Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Please read the Terms of Service for more information regarding use of the Healthline Site.