Method and Complexity in Bioethics: The Example of Community Genetics

Abstract

This article describes the need to develop a new methodology in bioethics that can consider multiple interactions, creativity and the organisation specific to complex systems. Community genetics is taken as an example of complexity in bioethics. Community genetics involves large populations and illustrates certain characteristics of complex adaptive systems which are discussed in the article.

Mapping the integration of social and ethical issues in health technology assessment

“…More generally, there is room for collaborationand not just delegation-such that ethicists and social scientists conduct research with and alongside HTA producers as part of a broader interdisciplinary research culture. This would then allow for greater reflexivity and shared learning in the conduct of HTA (5) and would enlarge the knowledge base upon which to draw for identifying what issues to address and when, and for comparing methods and processes.…”