Ethical Dilemmas in the Sciences [From the Editor]

Abstract

'Science without conscience is only ruin of the soul' said François Rabelais. This centuries-old quote still resonates, today maybe louder than ever. I began to write this editorial at the end of February when Russian tanks and soldiers invaded Ukraine and waves of bombers began dropping their bombs on Ukrainian cities, targeting civilian buildings, hospitals, and schools. This dramatic event was a shock to Europeans, since most of them have lived in relative peace for more than 70 years. Most of them probably pay minimal attention to the wars, however continuous, that have been taking place far from Europe, in Asia or Africa. The surprise and amazement were total and people became aware of the destructive power of a few humans. If only we could bring back Roland Magdane, a French humorist, and his 1981 sketch: 'The kings of fools' (in French) [1]. In this editorial, I would like to first address some of the dilemmas scientists are facing in their professional activities.