ICTethics

  • ICTethics performed an integrated ESLA analysis of identified strategic ICT developments that have the potential to revolutionise our lives. The results of the study were translated into a targeted feedback to all stakeholders involved, to the public at large and to general ICT innovation and e-inclusion policy in Europe.

  • Challenges engendered by new and emerging ICTs

    Among key challenges is the fact that many legislations and directives are obsolete and unable to keep pace with the implications of new ICT developments. To further explore these challenges, the ICT ethics partners were devoted to strategic networking and communication. These activities supported the development of four interconnected research lines, each focusing on specific flagship developments:

    1)  Intelligent environments
         Focus area: Personal health systems

    2)  Convergence of physical, mental and virtual
         Focus area: Assistive robotics and "smart" implants

    3)  Internet of things
         Focus area: Radio-frequency identification (RFID)

    4)  ICT for human security
         Focus area: Biometric identification

  • Cesagen's flagship development on assistive robotics and "smart" implants

    In a 2009 EC policy perspective on European robots, future robots are described as "smarter, safer, and more sensitive". They will be more-than-machines, for example, companions and efficient helpers. Similarly, the 2009 Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) for European robotics, titled Robotic Visions (to 2020 and beyond), argues that "[w]ith increased flexibility and ease of use, robots are at the dawn of a new era, turning them into ubiquitous helpers to improve our quality of life by delivering efficient services in our homes, offices, and public places."

    The 2010 UK (BIS) foresight document on Technology and Innovation Futures also teaches us that, "[o]ver the next decade, the convergence of information technology, nanoscale engineering, biotechnology and neuroscience is likely to lead to highly sophisticated bio-interfaces" (Foresight Horizon Scanning Centre, 2010 - Annex: 136). This document is one among many (e.g. UK MoD Strategic Trends Programme), predicting a proliferation in direct brain-computer interfaces, neural prosthesis, and hybrid computers using technology and organic tissue. The perceived opportunities are e.g. hands-free computing and communication, greatly improved understanding of brain functions, and physical/cognitive enhancement.

    Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations (Lancaster University)

    Novel Neurotechnologies: Intervening in the Brain (Cesagen's response to the Nuffield Council on Bioethics consultation on neurotechnology)

  • Members of the Cesagen team

    Ruth Chadwick
    Kristrún Gunnarsdóttir
    Adrian MacKenzie, PI
    Paul McCarthy, PI
    Charlotte Harwell (assistant)

    Project partners:
    International Forum for Biophilosophy, Belgium (coordinator)
    Cesagen - Lancaster University, United Kingdom
    University of Leeds, United Kingdom
    Fondazione Lelio e Lisli Basso-Issoco, Italy

    Contract No: FP7-230368
    Programme: FP7 Capacities
    Science in Society
    Ethics and new and emerging fields of science and technology
    EU Grant: 942.540 €
    Completed: 20 Aug 2013

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Cardiff University Lancaster University
Cesagen, Genomics Network
The Epinet project
The ICT ethics project
The Technolife project
The HIDE project The RISE project
The BBMRI project
The Gleube project
The BITE project