Biomedical Research Presentation

The discussion around problematic issues in biomedical research frequently centers around questions of process - the how part of the research process. However, prior to determining the ethical approach to determine how to do something, it is important that consideration be given to what should be the most appropriate target area for research. Research, particularly taxpayer-funded research through bodies such as NIH, is properly understood as an investment in a society's goals for its future. The domination of the disability research agenda by basic research into genetics and other causation-focused areas has left little room for investment in improvements in quality of life for people with disabilities and chronic health conditions. Through the lends of the disability rights advocacy community, I hope to explore the ways in which our current biomedical research agenda is imbalanced and ways in which advocacy by both grassroots and academic communities can help to establish a more robust committment to research avenues which support quality of life.