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America's Military Biomedical Complex: Law, Ethics, and the Drive for Scientific Innovation

Online ISBN:
9780199351473
Print ISBN:
9780199351459
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
Book

America's Military Biomedical Complex: Law, Ethics, and the Drive for Scientific Innovation

Efthimios Parasidis
Efthimios Parasidis

Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer Professor for the Administration of Justice and Rule of Law, and Professor of Public Health

Ohio State University
, Columbus, OH,
USA
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Published online:
12 December 2024
Published in print:
10 February 2025
Online ISBN:
9780199351473
Print ISBN:
9780199351459
Publisher:
Oxford University Press

Abstract

This book is the first to trace the fascinating story of how laws and ethical codes have co-evolved with the nation’s military science pursuits, dating back to the founding of the United States. It details scores of examples where untoward conduct has been rationalized as necessary to promote national security and achieve military goals. This includes hazardous research on unsuspecting individuals, military field tests across the country with atomic, biological, and chemical weapons, and the creation of biomedical enhancements that are poised to become essential elements of military missions. Due to secrecy mandates, governmental immunities, and lackluster healthcare, many individuals injured by these actions have been left without legal remedies or adequate means to address their injuries. The book shows how the drive for scientific and military superiority has shifted the moral compass of government and society. Without passing retrospective judgment, it details the moral calculus of decision makers at key moments in military science. This analysis reveals that officials were keenly aware of ethical dilemmas but nonetheless chose to engage in risky—and sometimes unlawful—activities to advance pressing national security goals. Coupled with this historical reflection, the book recommends policies that harmonize contemporary national security concerns with fundamental principles of justice, fairness, and human dignity. It introduces the concept of jus in praeparatione bellum—justice in war preparations—a doctrine of restraint and responsibility that aims to elucidate just and unjust means of preparing for war. The book applies jus in praeparatione bellum to contemporary military science pursuits, and proposes new laws and policies to guide military science projects.

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