If we focus too much on neurogenetic diseases (instead of on more positive conditions) we are in risk of increasing the discrimination against some groups instead of valorize the potential of them: The same neural and genetic circuits that generate disease and unwanted behaviors can in certain circumstances be tuned to generate precious abilities and positive behaviors.
Should neurogenetic/EEG/neuroimaging be more balanced in this regard to avoid to increase discrimination against some conditions, instead of stimulate opportunities?
Tough question, but I would put it this way: Our main concern should be to provide new insights in how to help patients (and generally to understand the brain functions), whether it be by exploring them or healthy people. So as long as one follows this focus, everything's alright.
What is your opinion?
I appreciate your opinion. Thank you, Joelle...
My opinion about it? It is not easy... What happens if, in order to provide new insight to help patients, we put others (perhaps healthy innocents) in a more vulnerable position?
Should we only be concerned with providing insight (as long as it benefits a group of patients) or should we also consider the whole picture and estimate the general benefit/harm we might also cause to others, either now or in the future?
Thank you for your answer, I appreciate such talk about the bigger story behind research very much.
Maybe I'm not thinking in the same direction as you are - could you give an example of potential harmfulness?
thanks again for your kind response ... I'm not sure if we should consider this "a big story behind research" (smile) ... maybe it is only a spontaneous question (?)...
Smart Joelle: why do not we just wait for someone with more knowledge or experience to help us with an example or opinion? Specific examples may be premature at this point ... on these slippery issues, it is better to go at low speed (smile)...
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