• Who: The St. Edward's University Center for Ethics and Leadership Lecture Series: Ethics at the Intersection of Science, Medicine, and Technology
• What: Lecture # 1, "Is Human Nature Natural? Reflections on Nature as a Moral Appeal in Biotechnology Debates," by guest speaker Andrew Lustig, PhD, director, Biotechnology, Religion and Ethics Program, Rice University.
• When: Thursday, March 3, 7-8:30 p.m.
• Where: Jones Auditorium, Robert & Pearle Ragsdale Center at St. Edward's University

Since the days of Plato, at any major intersection of human ideas, you will find the discussion of some sort of ethical stoplight to direct the progress of traffic. The intersection of science, medicine and technology is no different -- yet more complicated.



Yes, biotechnology can be a natural extension of human creativity, but should it also be subject to the equally natural constraints that humans use to govern their activities as responsible moral agents? There is no simple answer. Upon closer examination, appeals to nature may illuminate or obscure ethical assessments in medicine and technology.



For current information and analysis of this controversial subject, try the upcoming lecture at St. Edward's entitled, "Is Human Nature Natural? Reflection on Nature as a Moral Appeal in Biotechnology Debates," given by guest speaker Andrew Lustig, PhD, director of the Biotechnology, Religion and Ethics Program at Rice University. Lustig is a recognized authority on the ethical dilemmas raised by biotechnology. He is widely published in the areas of human cloning, bioethics, transplantation and surrogate parenting.



"We expect Dr. Ludwig's lecture will be more informative and reflective than prescriptive," said Phil Thomson, PhD, director of the Center for Ethics and Leadership at St. Edward's, which is hosting the lecture series. "This topic should warrant the interest of both ethics scholars and the biotechnology community."



The lecture and reception are free and open to the public. Preceding the lecture, there will be a reception with light refreshments from 6:30-7 p.m. in the lobby of Jones Auditorium. Free valet parking is provided. RSVP by Tuesday, March 1, to 464-8871 or cel@acad.stedwards.edu. This lecture is underwritten and sponsored by St. David's HealthCare Partnership.