In this lesson, you will explore the ethical questions surrounding controversial scientific advancements. Whether it's using artificial intelligence to make life-and-death decisions in hospitals or allowing geneticists to edit human embryos, science is moving faster than ever before. These developments raise difficult ethical questions that do not always have easy answers. The goal of this lesson is to help you critically evaluate different sides of an argument, practice respectful debate, and use modal verbs to express uncertainty or obligation—all while preparing for the ITEP Academic-Plus exam's speaking and writing sections.
Vocabulary
To discuss science and ethics clearly, you need to understand and use the right terminology. The following words often appear in discussions or writing about scientific controversy and ethical decision-making. Make sure you understand their meaning and how they are used in context.
| Word | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| consent | Permission given by someone for something to happen, especially after understanding the risks or consequences. | Patients must give informed consent before undergoing genetic testing. |
| autonomy | The right or condition of self-government; in ethics, it refers to a person’s ability to make their own decisions. | Medical AI must respect human autonomy, not replace it. |
| enhancement | Improvement or augmentation, especially of human capabilities through technology or science. | Some argue that genetic enhancement could lead to inequality. |
| regulation | Rules or laws that control how something is done, especially by a government or authority. | Strict regulation is necessary to prevent the misuse of CRISPR technology. |
| unintended consequences | Outcomes that are not foreseen or intended by a purposeful action. | Even well-meaning scientific research can lead to unintended consequences. |
Grammar
When debating controversial issues, especially in science, it's important to express not only your opinion, but also your level of certainty or moral judgment. Modals such as should, might, must, and ought to are essential tools for expressing speculation, obligation, and ethical stance.
Modals for Speculation
To express possibility or likelihood, we use modals such as might, may, and could. These help us discuss outcomes or risks that are not certain but worth considering.
Examples: “This technology might save thousands of lives.” / “Editing DNA could lead to social inequality.”
Modals for Ethical Stance
To show moral judgment or obligation, we use modals such as should, must, and ought to. These are essential in expressing personal or collective beliefs about what is right or wrong.
Examples: “Scientists should always act with transparency.” / “We must protect individual autonomy.” / “Governments ought to regulate dangerous technologies.”
Video Input
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