Ethics Fellow to Publish Book on Research

Ethics Fellow Dr. Ruhul H. Kuddus has proposed a book which will present the findings of his research and explain how the different research he will do is interconnected.

Kuddus is the newest UVU professor to receive the position as the University Faculty Fellow in Ethics and has received a $7,000 grant in the hopes that his publication will contribute to the UVU community and ethical world research.

Having already done substantial research in several disciplines, Dr. Kuddus has published books in areas such as molecular biology, transplantation immunology and biotechnology and has edited two volumes of research on developmental issues in lesser-developed countries.

Progression of the research as well as individual chapters of the book will be presented by Kuddus during Ethics Awareness Week in September 2010.

The book will discuss both the ethical and religious views on controversial ways of improving and conserving life as well as concerns regarding the current status of many alternative solutions to organ procurement and distribution.

“Religions directly or indirectly control the activities of majority of individuals and nations,” said Kuddus. “I plan to explore the major religions…and explore if religions can be helpful in increasing public acceptance and awareness of sensitive ethical issues.”

The current system of altruistic organ donation will be studied and the ethical implications of alternative activities will be considered.

Stem-cell research and organ creation as a strategy to generate organs as they are demanded will be analyzed and the economic and ethical ramifications surrounding the creation of organ banks will be examined. The emerging role of genetic engineering in medicine and agriculture will also be reviewed as a possible solution.

“Studying, researching, applying and propagating ethical principles are essential for preserving and improving human conditions in the ever-changing living and working spheres,” said Kuddus. “Ethics is the cornerstone of everyday life and professional activities.”