Bioethics and the Myth of Neutrality

Abstract

There is currently a resurgence of interest in and debate on the role of bioethicists as advocates. However, it is also important that we discuss the appropriate role and responsibilities of bioethical associations. We must accept the responsibilities that attach to silence and inaction. Bioethics has always aimed to be practical, to make a difference to practice and policy, particularly when standing with those who are marginalised. Such actions are necessarily political. We call on the bioethics community to examine critically the myth of neutrality in bioethics.