Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2012
Abstract
This article suggests that investigational deep brain stimulation (DBS) for mental disorders raises few new bioethical issues. Although the scientific basis of the procedure may be both complex and largely unknown, addressing informed consent in such situations is a familiar problem. After reviewing the legal and moral background for investigating DBS and the scientific difficulties DBS faces as a potential treatment for mental disorders, the article focuses on informed consent and makes two primary suggestions. The study of DBS may proceed, but "hyper-disclosure" of the complexities should be required for competent subjects or proper surrogates if the candidate is not competent, and the most rigorous standard for competence should be employed. Throughout, neuromodesty and caution are urged.
Keywords
bioethics, deep-brain stimulation, informed consent, neuroethics, neurological and psychiatric disorders, psychosurgery
Publication Title
American Journal of Bioethics Neuroscience
Repository Citation
Morse, Stephen J., "New Therapies, Old Problems, or, A Plea for Neuromodesty" (2012). All Faculty Scholarship. 390.
https://scholarship.law.upenn.edu/faculty_scholarship/390
Included in
Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons, Biological Psychology Commons, Health Law and Policy Commons, Law and Psychology Commons, Medical Neurobiology Commons, Other Psychiatry and Psychology Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Public Law and Legal Theory Commons
Publication Citation
AJOB Neuroscience, Vol. 3(1), Pg. 60, 2012