Ethical Aspects of ICT Implants in the Human Body

Opinion by the European Group on Ethics in Science & New Technol. Info. & Communication Technol. (ICT) pervade our lives & are becoming more & more a part of our bodies, either because we wear them (wearable computing) or because they are implanted in our bodies. Although ICT implants (such as cardiac pacemakers) may be used to repair deficient bodily capabilities, they can also be misused, particularly if these devices are accessible via digital networks. This Opinion will raise awareness & questions concerning the ethical dilemmas created by a range of ICT implants in this field. Proposes clear ethical boundaries, legal principles & suggests several steps that should be taken by responsible regulators. Text in English, French & German. Illus.Nsanze, Fabienne is the author of 'Ethical Aspects of ICT Implants in the Human Body', published 2005 under ISBN 9781422302170 and ISBN 1422302172.