Sober Second Thought Model

 

BEIA has developed an analytical and evolving way of thinking about bioethics, built around the notion of what the Greeks termed "sober second thoughts".

 

The goal of the SSTM is to provide a process approach for evaluating the ethical issues and implications of biotechnological advances through small-group discussion. The model keeps the question of what it means to be human at the forefront of bioethics deliberations and considers the consequences (intended and unintended) of scientific and technological innovation in light of the personal and public good. The SSTM provides interested laymen with a vehicle to examine critical advances in the life sciences in light of original treatments of universal and timeless themes of human experience. 

 

The need for such an approach is based on a consensus found in articles and media treatments of biotechnological innovation:  there typically is a call for “public discussion” of these advances, lest the changes proposed go unexamined for their potential danger (from unintended consequences, for instance) to our freedoms and physical well-being—and the potential respective threats to our posterity.

 

For more information about the Sober Second Thought Model and its implementation in curricular or community discussion groups, contact: Karl Haigler, Executive Director, Bioethics-in-Action, 336–940–2600 or karlh@bioethics-in-action.org.