THE BALANCE OF ETHICS AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATIONS

You will agree with me that where there is no law, there is no crime. Life is bound by rules and, by extension, by ethics. This implies the expected principles that would guide the conduct of a person or project. They are often referred to as moral justifications for matters as they relate to an individual or project. While in school, we had a requirement to have ethical approval before we could commence our projects. This was purposely done to ensure that harm is neither done to humanity nor available projects that make life easier.

Society and the world at large are constantly advancing in technology, as research is often propagated mostly by developed nations. Biotechnology involves the use of part or whole of a biological organism to accentuate the efficacy of technology as it relates to utility. The major focus of biotechnology has been in health and food science; however, it is not unlikely that biotechnology would spread to other sectors.

ETHICAL INNOVATION

Science, through research, has continued to seek innovations through manipulation, try and error, and explorations of the known and unknown in order to modify or bring to newness an innovation or discovery. Scientists usually go the extra mile to arrive at a discovery, sometimes not minding the cost, which could be financial and, at other times, detrimental to human life. Research often involves lots of trials. Science encourages research, as this eventually is expected to better humanity; however, it must be frowned at if the paths taken are those that would harm the populace, irrespective of the number, small or large. Life is precious and must be considered first, rather than the pursuit of fame. The methods of research are vital, as this often dictates whether the end results will be justified.

IMAGE CREDIT

GENETIC MANIPULATION

Genetic manipulation stems from the exclusion of desired proteins or organisms, such as those employed in recombinant DNA, the production of drugs, food preservatives, etc. The application of living organisms as additives to technology helps to mimic the biological atmosphere of human cells. These engineering processes often result in tampering with the already established genetic human sequencing, which may cause little, severe, or no damage at all. Also, some effects of these biotech products may not be evident immediately and may take a lot of time to show impacts and effects. Scientists thus need to dedicate much precision and accuracy while manipulating genes for human intervention.

SELF-DRIVING CARS

Technology further advanced innovations such as self-driving cars, which respond to programs or instructions by the user. This is one of the heights and marvels of technology, as vehicles can be seen on the streets without a human driver in them. When there is a malfunction or need for redirecting as a result of environmental or human factors alien to the owner of such cars, I want to assume precautionary measures have been put in place to avoid casualties that may be life-threatening.

By and large, innovations are welcome, but regard for life and moral principles should be held in high esteem.

Here is my entry into #aprilinleo monthly and daily prompts. You can participate via this LINK

Thank you for reading. I would love to have your comments and contributions.