At first glance human rights might seem to have little relevance for science, but this is not the case. Science is dependent on respect for human rights, particularly freedom of thought and freedom of speech. In many countries, however, the human rights and academic freedoms of scientists are violated by government or by groups that enjoy government support. Science can play an important role in helping to protect and promote human rights. In addition, international human rights law recognizes a substantive right to the freedom necessary for scientific research and a right to have access to the benefits of scientific progress. Yet in some circumstances scientists and health professionals have contributed to human rights violations.

Human Rights

What then are human rights? Rights in moral philosophy and political theory are understood as justified claims. A right is an entitlement of a person or group to some...