Ordinary ethics: lay people's deliberations on social sex selection

Banks, S.; Scully, J.L.; Shakespeare, T.

Abstract

This article summarises the results of a research project that used a scenario about sex selection of embryos for social reasons as a basis for discussion groups with lay people. The aim of the research was to examine the processes by which non-professionals make ethical evaluations in relation to a contested area in medical genetics. We note in particular the role played in the discussions by expressions of instinct; making distinctions; rational argument; reference to principles; use of personal experience; analogies and examples; slippery slope arguments and meta-reflections. The implications for developing processes of public consultation and debate are also considered.

Citation

Banks, S., Scully, J., & Shakespeare, T. (2006). Ordinary ethics: lay people's deliberations on social sex selection. New Genetics and Society, 25(3), 289-303. https://doi.org/10.1080/14636770601032890

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: 2006-12
• Deposit Date: Aug 15, 2008
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 15, 2008
• Journal: New Genetics and Society
• Print ISSN: 1463-6778
• Electronic ISSN: 1469-9915
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 25
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 289-303
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14636770601032890
• Keywords: Ethics, Sex selection, Lay people.
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1596628
• Publisher URL: http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/section?content=a770171712&fmt=.html&fulltext=713240928&scope=doc