Introduction to Bioethics

3 ECTS / Semester / Português

Objetivos e Competências

Knowledge:

  1. To acquire and understand sound knowledge in bioethics.
  2. To develop the capacity to critically reflect on nowadays bioethical challenges, issues and problems and know the main instruments and models for ethical deliberation and decision-making applied to the Biotechnology field (e.g., Bioengineering, Microbiology and Nutritional Science).   

Understanding:

  1. To understand a new scientific area with strong interdisciplinary linkages between Bioethics and the Biotechnology fields (e.g., Bioengineering, Microbiology and Nutritional Science).
  2. To use, integrate and apply the new knowledge to specific situations.

Analysis:

  1. To analyze specific cases and problems, using, applying, and integrating the most relevant instruments and models for ethical deliberation and decision-making.
  2. To identify and apply relevant national and international legislation, regulations, and policies to analyze specific ethical cases, challenges and problems raised in the Biotechnology field (e.g., Bioengineering, Microbiology and Nutritional Science).

 

Metodologias de ensino

Teaching methods:
Reading of essential supporting documents for each teaching session; Lectures; Mixed teaching method; Brainstorm of ideas about specific topics; Viewing, analysis, and discussion of documentaries in the classroom and within smaller groups; Teamwork in small groups.

 

Conteúdos programáticos

Part 1. Introduction to Bioethics

  • Concepts and foundations
  • Historical overview
  • Principles and values
  • Bioethics and its methodologies  
  • Global Bioethics and international Biolaw and Policies

Part 2. Research Ethics and Responsible Conduct of Research

  • Concepts and foundations
  • The concept of “Goodness” in research
  • Research ethics frameworks, policies and procedures  
  • Ethical principles and values applied to research
  • Integrity in scientific research
  • Responsible research and innovation

Part 3. Ethical deliberation and decision-making processes

  • Theories of Conflict Resolution
  • Models for ethical deliberation and decision-making
  • The Five-Step Model for Ethical Decision-Making

Part 4. Special ethical problems

  • Healthcare and clinical ethics

Part 5. Special ethical problems

  • Genetics, biotechnology, and environment

Faculty

Invited Professor
Prof. Dr. Sandra Martins Pereira is FCT Principal Investigator at CEGE, Research Center in Management and Economics, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, where she…