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KMID : 0904520070210010157
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Health and Medical Sociology
2007 Volume.21 No. 1 p.157 ~ p.196
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A Survey Research on The Social and Ethical Implication of Life Sciences and Regenerative Medicine
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Kim Jung-Sun
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Abstract
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Although regenerative and genetic medicine using stem-cell research are considered as major solutions for currently non-curable diseases, the so-called “Hwang Woo Seok” incident had shed light on potential legal, ethical, and social issues concerning the breakthrough. As constructive assessment and information of social dispositions are needed, this research reviewed the recent development of social, political, and ethical aspects of biotechnology and life sciences in general and stem-cell research in specific. Based on the discussions and debates in the reviews, a survey questionnaire was developed and a nation-wide survey on the public’s knowledge and its toward stem-cell research was conducted in 2006. The parameters of survey included 1) attitude toward general sciences and research products, 2) interest and importance of genetic medicine, 3) the role of social institution in life sciences, and 3) future outlook and solutions on regenerative research and stem-cell sciences
The results of our research show that the public acknowledges the importance and potential of biotechnology, yet with little professional knowledge in the field. The degree, however, varies among generations and socioeconomic status. For instance, the older respondents over age 40s, tend to support scientists and scientific research, whereas those under 30s have more reservation in the development of life sciences. It is also revealed that male and those with higher education have more interests and support in stem-cell research in general, But, most of the respondents disapprove the research concerning human cloning. These results imply that class-specific educational programs of bioethics in regenerative medicine and stem-cell research are needed
Finally, the public expects that life sciences and stem-cell research will grow as a leading strategic industry and contribute to the nation in the future, and thus, the governmental and educational institutes rather than the media or NPO’s initiate systematic guiding rules and principles for research on biotechnology and life sciences
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KEYWORD
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Life Sciences, Stem-Cell Research, Bioethics, Social Support System, Social Survey
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