Topic : Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of Family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
5. What is Human Challenge Trials (HCT)? Are human challenge trials ethical? Explain. (250 words)
Reference: Deccan Herald
Why the question:
The article presents to us a detailed analysis of HCTs and their ethicality.
Key Demand of the question:
Explain what Human challenge trials are; discuss the ethical issues involved in it.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by defining what HCTs are.
Body:
Explain that in HCT, volunteers are deliberately exposed to the virus. This shortens the time frame by eliminating the chance factor of infection. The participant’s body is ‘challenged’ by the pathogen in controlled situations. HCTs have been conducted for diseases like malaria, dengue, etc. and WHO has already published an ethical framework. The controversy in the Covid-19 vaccine is that, unlike malaria, there is no available treatment. The dilemma is ethical i.e. deliberately infecting a participant with a virus and the ability of the participant to consent to it, if done voluntarily.
Discuss the pros and cons, elaborate on the ethical angles involved and suggest your opinion.
Conclusion:
Conclude with fair and balanced approach.
