#6 Ethics and Patents
The world of technology is moving at a breathtaking speed, with developments in AI, synthetic biology, genetic engineering and regenerative medicine changing our tomorrow. But as science and innovation rush forward, an important question rises: should ethically controversial or socially objectionable inventions be patented?
In this thought-provoking episode of the DosAgos Podcast, we look at the intersection of innovation, law and ethics. Patent systems were originally designed to reward inventors while serving the broader public interest. But, what happens when new technologies push the boundaries of human dignity, morality and societal values?
We discuss how the world's regions approach this sensitive issue. In Europe, the morality clause of the European Patent Convention explicitly excludes from patenting what is contrary to 'ordre public' or morality, including areas such as human cloning, embryo use and genetic modifications that cause suffering. We look at a landmark case such as the WARF stem cells decisions which set the framework for ongoing debates about dignity, commodification and the limits of science.
In contrast, the United States takes a different approach, with no explicit morality clause in its patent law. However, historically, the 'moral utility doctrine' allowed for some limits, but today, the US patent system stays on technical requirements and leaves morality and ethical queries to legislators. This in turn, creates ethical blind spots in the process.
We also explore novel challenges in the age of AI-generated inventions. If machines are coming up with new ideas, how do we maintain disclosure, transparency and ethics in this new reality?
This episode isn't just about patents. It's about the future of ethical innovation. Should everything that can be invented also be patented? Or should society draw firm ethical lines in the sand?
Turn into Episode 6 and join the debate at the frontier of science, law and morality.
