Modern biotechnology is as controversial as it is promising. Teaching the associated ethical issues can help engage students to learn the relevant science concepts and to learn the skills necessary to contribute to ongoing social dialogue about science and society. Topics may include an overview of ethical controversies about biotechnology and specific ethical issues in plant, animal, and human biotechnology. Possible topics include:

• Making ethical decisions
• Genetic testing
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Sex Selection
• Stem cell research
• Animal testing
• Reproductive technology
• Gene therapy
• Plastic surgery
• Health privacy
• Right to die
• Evolution vs. creationism
• Cloning
• Drug pricing
• Medical privacy