ISD II – Gastroenterology

Ethics/Humanities/Health Law

Short Paper Topics

Remember that those of you who selected the option of writing short essays during the ISD I & II course should submit your next essay by Jan. 31. Below are some possible topics.

1. William Beaumont has been both praised and condemned for his treatment of Alexis St. Martin. Present and defend your own assessment of Beaumont’s behaviour, keeping in mind that it may not be reasonable to expect Beaumont to have abided by contemporary standards. (Additional readings on Beaumont will be placed on reserve.)

2. The recent case of Nancy Olivieri highlighted the problem of conflict of interest in medical research. Olivieri wished to release information concerning the efficacy of a drug she was involved in studying. The study sponsor sought to block the release of this information. Discuss the Olivieri case and any implications it has for how medical research should be governed. (For some discussion of this case see http://www.caut.ca/english/issues/acadfreedom/olivieri.asp.)

You may also write on a topic of your own choosing provided it deals with Ethics/Humanities/Health Law issues connected with psychiatry. Please see either John Crellin or Andrew Latus to discuss a topic.