The Scottish Council on Human Bioethics is not opposed to scientific and medical advances, as David Shaw seems to imply (Letters, 9 May). Indeed, it is not because the council promotes careful ethical considerations that it automatically opposes biomedical research.
Moreover, it is interesting that he seems to accuse the council of being a religious organisation because many of its statements do not conflict with those of some churches and that some of its members (but not all) have a religious faith. Does he no
t realise that if one excluded all persons with a specific world view from social discussion bodies, they would all be completely empty, including our Scottish Parliament?
The council has always sought to take into account and understand all the world views present in society with the aim of increasing dialogue in a responsible manner.
Dr Shaw also suggests that "research deserves consideration and review because of the potential harm it could cause, not because someone might find it offensive". As a lecturer in ethics, I am surprised he suggests ignoring anyone who may be offended by a certain procedure. Moreover, does he not find the infliction of harm offensive?
I do not know what Dr Shaw's world-view is, but it is one I am willing to respect as much as any other.
(DR) CALUM MACKELLAR
Director of Research
Scottish Council on Human Bioethics
Morningside Road
EdinburghThe full article contains 237 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
