How are we going to use our new-found knowledge of the brain?
The world of science fiction is almost here. Developments in brain science mean scientists and doctors can understand the brain in ways we couldn’t have foreseen a decade ago and future developments could go well beyond our wildest imagination. However, if new technologies and drugs can alter, enhance and control our brains then will they change what it means to be human? Should such practices be encouraged or suppressed? How are we going to use our new-found knowledge of the brain?
Meeting of Minds - European Citizens’ Deliberation on Brain Science is a unique exercise involving the general public in a discussion on cutting-edge science. Citizens from nine European countries will suggest what they think should be done with our new-found knowledge of the brain. They will debate the ethical, social and legal implications with international experts. The citizens’ conclusions on the use of new technology, medicines and techniques will be offered to policy-makers at the European, national and international level.
This website provides information about the project and aims to stimulate the debate.
The Science Museum’s Dana Centre - the UK’s only venue for adults to discuss contemporary and controversial science - has been selected to run the UK arm alongside eleven other respected and independent institutions across Europe.
From this UK home page you can also access the country sites of the participating partner organisations by selecting the country or region in the dropdown menu at the top of this page.
News Items
UK national citizens' report presented in the House of Commons
Following a final weekend of deliberations and discussions with 15 invited experts and stakeholders the UK citizens' panel have formulated a series of recommendations. These are contained in their report which was presented to Phyllis Starkey, MP, at a press briefing at the House of Commons on 17th October.