About us
Envisioning the Future and,
Co-Creating a Better Society
Rapid advances in science, medicine, and engineering have enriched our lives. At the same time, when conducting cutting-edge research or applying its results to society, a range of ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) may arise. Guided by the principles of responsible research and innovation (RRI), the Uehiro Division for Applied Ethics envisions a future shaped by diverse advanced scientific and technological fields and works toward co-creating a better society.
Our Activities
Engagement in ELSI Research
Drawing on our expertise in ethics and history, we collaborate with various research and development groups to address ELSI.
Promoting RRI
Together with a diverse range of stakeholders, we envision the future and the kind of society that we aspire to. Based on this vision, we re-examine existing social structures and co-create a better future in harmony with science and technology.
Developing Experts in Applied Ethics
Through various initiatives related to ELSI and RRI, we will train experts to lead the next generation of applied ethics.
Securing and Nurturing Talent
With the broad utilization of advanced technologies in mind, we work to secure and develop individuals capable of providing input on legal regulations and governance at both the domestic and international levels.
Stable Knowledge Production
By having our members work together on projects in teams, we aim for stable and consistent knowledge production.
International Collaboration
To create a better international community, we actively promote joint international research. Through this, we strive to secure and develop global talent capable of contributing to responsible science and technology development and implementation in society.
Message from the Director
Takashi Maruta
Developments in science, medicine, and engineering have enriched our lives. However, living in Hiroshima, we cannot help but recognize from past experience that depending on how technology is used, it can pose threats to world peace and our daily lives. To foster new technologies in society and elicit their full potential, it is crucial that we work together to consider the ethical, legal, and social challenges they bring as well as the ideal ways in which they should be employed.
Message from the Vice Director
Tsutomu Sawai
The establishment of ethical norms and legal regulations has traditionally lagged behind advancements in science, medicine, and engineering. To overcome this problem, we must reconsider our research approach. Specifically, it is essential to reframe our thinking so that we envision a future that respects the values cherished by society and pursues the research and technological development necessary to realize an ideal society.