We aim to develop a new, practicum-based science ethics training program which will be particularly appropriate for the diverse, practically oriented student population at the University of Houston. This project, "Experiencing Ethics", is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Click here to read more about this effort.



Coverage in the journal Science of the AAAS

The journal Science had a nice commentary about our Ethics in Science program.
The article is entitled "Responsibly conducting research."

It is also posted at the Online Ethics Center for Engineering and Science
at the National Academy of Engineering.



Seminars

Access now our complete seminar series!




  • Featured Blog

    Have We Learned from the Mistakes of the Past?

    By Deepa Dhungel | December 15, 2019

    There is no doubt that science has advanced outstandingly. This would not be possible without the substantial researches done in the past. However, there have been so many incidences that have overlooked humanity in the pretext of science. For examples: the human radiation experiments, the infamous Tuskegee study, the case of tobacco etc. They are questionable not just on ethical but also on moral grounds. We do not hesitate to criticize the past incidences and condemn them for being unethical and heinous. Read more ...

  • Featured Blog

    An Emotionless Science

    By Jennyffer Smith | December 15, 2019

    Science is cold like an operating table, sharp like a scalpel, and unforgiving like animal experimentation. Emotion, on the other hand, is empathetic. It is concerned. It is kind. Many think that science and emotion are antagonistic. From the above descriptions, it would appear they are quite opposite. It would even seem like the attempt to blend emotion into science would only dilute and soften the latter. However, this is not the case at all. In fact, scientific exploration is at its best when the two work in harmony. Indeed, emotion may soften science, but this makes science both humane and human. Read more ...

  • Featured Blog

    The Importance of Social Responsibility in Science and Technology

    By Linjiang Lou | December 15, 2019

    We live in an age where science, medicine and technology are rapidly advancing. Such rapid advancements in these fields means more knowledge, and with more knowledge comes great power. For example, with technologies such as artificial intelligence, we have the ability to design self-driving cars or autonomous weapons. With genome editing technology, we have the power to modify DNA for treating diseases or creating designer babies. Read more ...

  • Featured Blog

    Science Ethics Blog

    By Francisco Guzman | December 15, 2019

    Throughout the course, I learned of many case studies where techno-scientific experts engaged, often unwittingly, in unethical behavior. Early in the semester, I was taught that science was not a “value-free”production of knowledge; rather, it is a career that can be subject to scientists’ emotions, conflicts, biases and failings. With this in mind, I questioned how in each of the cases, individuals could hold strongly to their paradigms and beliefs despite evidence refuting their positions and warning of harm. My initial impression was that the experts dehumanized subjects and needlessly harmed them, but this answer proved too simplistic and dismissive. Read more ...

Featured Course

History of Science
(Spring 2020)

After introducing the students to the basic principles of writing, the course emphasizes practice on topics drawn from the science history record. Emphasis is placed on the interaction between science, technology, and society/culture in 20th century America. The topics are diverse covering all STEM fields. The course is CORE – Writing in the Disciplines (WID). Read more ...