Report of the Nabc Ad-Hoc Committee on Ethics

Abstract

1. Each NABC member institutions should ensure that subject matter on ethical issues associated with food and agricultural biotechnology is systematically integrated into the curriculum of their institution. The pattern of implementation will vary a teach institution, but we expect that some combination of the following three strategies will be employed at most institutions. a) Modules Included in Basic and Applied Science Courses b) Modules Included in General Courses on Applied Ethics c) Special courses on Ethics and Food Biotechnology

2. Each NABC member institution should develop an institutional mechanism for supporting faculty interest and research on ethical issues. Again, implementation will vary. In some institutions, an informal network of interested colleagues will fulfill this function, but in many places an annual workshop or a formal faculty/center will be needed to carry this out.

3. Each NABC institution should include information on ethical issues in its public education programs on biotechnology. Extension and public policy education materials should be developed and NABC institutions should actively disseminate materials on ethical issues beyond the campus.

4. NABC should support these efforts of member institutions by sponsoring regular workshops or conferences on ethical issues,aiding in the development of modules and teaching materials, and aiding in the dissemination of materials in both printed and electronic form. In particular, NABC should support these efforts by raising funds from member institutions, from foundations and government agencies, and from the private sector,including commercial biotechnology companies.