engleski

Multidimensional approach in the application of ethical standards in ancient DNA research

Goal was to determine the extent of (normative) uniformity on international level regarding application of ethical standards in contemporary research of ancient DNA (aDNA), and to assess to which degree this uniformity contributes to the easier implementation of scientific research on aDNA. We conducted a literature scoping review of the online databases Scopus, Web of Science as well as gray literature. The combination of keywords: ethics, ancient DNA, aDNA without any limitations was used. Afterwards the publications were analyzed in reference manager (duplicates and non- relevant literature excluded). Total of 94 publications were found. After the analysis of the results 16 of the publications were excluded as duplicates and 59 as non-relevant publications. The remaining 19 publications were analyzed in detail. The analysis indicated that a majority of relevant publications on the aDNA ethical standards were published in the last 5 years. 12 publications discuss ethical dilemmas on aDNA research regardless of specific population, while 7 publications discuss ethical dilemmas considering specific populations (4 of them deal with the topic of native populations of Americas, 2 of them with native populations of Africa, and 1 of them with remains from ancient Egypt). Information extracted from relevant publications indicate the importance of DNA analysis in the array of anthropological techniques but also emphasize the significance of conducting the research methods on aDNA in accordance with ethical standards. The research community faces the challenge of defining global and/or supranational ethical guidelines, which would define minimum of ethical standards acceptable to different countries, cultures, religions, social groups, and other stakeholders. Recent history indicates to the possibility of misuse of DNA research, in promoting theories aimed at the dominance of certain social groups over others. Results of our research emphasize the importance of unification of ethical principles, application of uniform ethical standards and promotion of a healthy balance between scientific interest in aDNA and respect for cultural, social, religious, and other differences among different stakeholders.

ancient DNA ; ethical guidelines ; stakeholders ; cultural differences ; religion

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