Science and technology are pursued for human benefit. But the particular benefits of scientific research and technological development are the result of human activities embodying various cultural, economic, and ethical frameworks as well as the perspectives, purposes, and prejudices of any given society and of powerful groups within it. One group that should benefit includes disabled people. But such benefit will in large measure depend on the governance of science and technology, the involvement of disabled people themselves in their governance, and on the very concept of disability, an issue that is more contentious than commonly recognized. With regard to science, technology, and disability, there are at least two ethical issues that deserve more consideration than they are usually given: What perception of disabled people guides scientific research and technological development? What role do disabled people play in this process?

Solutions Follow Perceptions

Science and technology for disabled...