Since the 1990s AAAS has been involved in education and research initiatives in the field of bioethics. AAAS has convened interdisciplinary forums that have brought together policymakers, scientists, theologians, ethicists and other various stakeholders to discuss the ethical, legal, social and policy implications of advances such as cloning, stem cell research, and human enhancement. AAAS has also explored ethics consulting in the biotechnology industry by examining policies and practices and surveying biotechnology companies and ethics consultants. Several publications for the public, policy makers, and the scientific community have been produced.
[2004-2006] Ethics Consulting
To learn more about the landscape of ethics consulting for the biotechnology industry, AAAS launched a project in 2004 to examine policies and practices related to such consulting and to prepare resources that both consultants and industry might find useful as they negotiate their working relationships.
[2003] Regulating Human Cloning
In an effort to promote informed discussion encompassing both legal and scientific perspectives, AAAS convened a one-day invitational workshop on the regulatory issues associated with human cloning. Participants represented a wide range of backgrounds and constituencies, all of which should be included in a careful, science-driven examination of this topic.
[1999] Stem Cell Research and Applications: Scientific, Ethical, and Policy Issues
In the face of extraordinary advances in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases, devastating illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and diseases of the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease, continue to deprive people of health, independence, and well-being. Research in human developmental biology has identified human stem cells (precursor cells that can give rise to multiple tissue types), including embryonic stem (ES) cells, embryonic germ (EG) cells, and adult stem cells.
[1997] Forum on Cloning
Having long been involved in educational initiatives and research programs in the field of bioethics, AAAS served to promote a constructive dialogue among different viewpoints and contribute to the development of appropriate public policy through its 1997 Forum on Cloning. Advances in cloning research, particularly with the cloning of Dolly through nuclear transfer, fueled considerable public debate.