Scientific Practice and Responsibility

Abstract

Among the reasons that make one choose a scientific vocation those which arise from processes of moral reflection seem to play but a minor role. Indeed, it would be surprising if the curriculum vitae of a prominent scientist would indicate differently concerning his scientific career. Research is almost exclusively professional nowadays, and usually professions have a secure social and cultural status long before we decide to enter one. Doing so, therefore, does not normally presuppose self-justification at all. Normally there is no-occasion to ask questions such as whether the contemplated move is permissible or forbidden or, perhaps, especially commendable. Generally, moral conscience is no party to the choice of a scientific vocation; not because science places us beyond good and evil, but because the scientific occupation can be taken up and practiced in the shelter of traditionally self-evident assumptions.