Helsinki+Declaration+-+THE+J-INATOR!

The Helsinki Declaration is the "Ten Commandments" of "medical research ethics" that was established in the meeting located in Helsinki in 1964 (Dismantling). The document establishes various guidelines and procedures that must be considered before embarking on a scientific experiment. The need for ethical guidelines became prominent after the "horrific pseudoscientific medical experiments" that were performed by Nazis within concentration camps (Dismantling). ([] this website explains some of the Nazi experiments) The other pressing reason that pushed many leaders of the WMA (World Medical Association) into considering a document that respected the ethics of science was the terribleness of other trials and experiments that occurred; Henrietta Lacks situation would have also been presented on this side if it were truly to be considered. Another reason was the large advancements that took place in the scientific world prior to the meeting in Helsinki (Dismantling).

A leading group for the guidelines and developing research on human subjects within the Declaration of Helsinki was and still often is Canada's medical association (Dismantling). (see paragraph 30 within the Declaration of Helsinki)

In the recent and coming meetings to refine the Helsinki, a major debate is whether or not the document should become strengthened or weakened for scientists. Advocates such as Kenneth Rothman and Karin Michels wish to strengthen the document because they wish to "strengthen the protection of patients who participate in medical experiments" and the do not agree with ethics behind placebo treatments in place of "existing accepted treatment[s]" (For and Against). Whereas administrations such as the US FDA wish to make the terms more lenient so that scientists will be allowed more leeway in their trials (For and Against).

Here is the actual Declaration of Helsinki in case anyone wishes to know the actual guidelines behind the document! > []

Here is a list of nations that have signed the Helsinki. (I'm sorry but Wikipedia was the only place I could find this list; if I discover a better source in the research, I will incorporate that instead! the section is 3. Signatory States about halfway through, ENJOY!) ---> []

(Dismantling) - http://www.cmaj.ca/content/169/10/997.full

(For and Against) - http://www.bmj.com/content/321/7258/442.1