Ethics, Science and Space
Since the first Sputnik satellite was put into orbit in 1957 by the USSR, there are now several thousand active (e.g. observation, navigation and telecommunications satellites) or inactive satellites in orbit around the Earth. This situation raises societal and security issues in terms of respect for and protection of the space environment. At the same time, space research and the development of manned missions (e.g. the International Space Station) have also raised issues of governance of research conducted in space, and ethical issues concerning the responsibility of scientists and funders.
While space may seem far removed from our day-to-day problems, it is worth reconsidering the value of space expeditions in the light of the challenges facing humanity. Yet space is both an object and a field of research conducive to scientific discoveries and developments in the life sciences, particularly in health. What potential does space research have for science? How do space phenomena impact on human health, and what benefits can we expect from studying them? How do the organisation and methodologies of space research raise ethical issues in science?
To answer these questions and many others, don’t miss the workshops organised by the Genotoul Societal platform.
The 2025 theme, ‘Ethics, Science and Space’, will be led by specialists in the field, followed by a debate with participants (from the scientific community and the general public) to encourage reflection and discussion.
Part 1 – Humanity, space sciences and ethical issues, on 27 March from 2 to 5 pm, see the detailed programme here,
Part 2 – Astronaut and human health, on 15 May from 2 to 5 pm (detailed programme to follow),
Part 3 – Space and fundamental research in the life sciences, on 19 June from 2 to 5 pm (detailed programme to follow).
Hybrid format: Faculté de Médecine, 37 allées Jules Guesde, Toulouse and videoconference.
The UNESCO Chair in Ethics, Science and Society is associated with this event.
Registration is compulsory, free and open to all
If you missed the 2023 & 2024 workshops organised by the Genotoul Societal platform, you can watch the videos online : https://www.youtube.com/@GISGENOTOUL