The multiple uncertainties associated with the covid-19 pandemic highlight the need to incorporate horizon-scanning and longer-term ethical thinking into response strategies. This workstream identifies, highlights and analyses ethical challenges resulting from current decisions, and builds ethical preparedness for future crises.
In addition, it asks what ethical resources, both public and expert, are needed to support effective health and social interventions in response to pandemic crises; and examines how these might shape and be shaped by public values and attitudes, with particular reference to key challenges raised by covid-19, such as end-of-life care, restrictions on individual liberties, their justifications and implementation. The foresight workstream also considers the role of individualistic versus communitarian values in achieving effective responses.
Dr Sarah Chan from the University of Edinburgh is leading this workstream. A vacancy for a postdoctoral researcher will soon be announced.
