Abstract

The paper concerns itself with the moral aspects of the development of science and its consequences for contemporary society. Particular attention is given to ethical reflection on the problem of scientific activities and the role of moral responsibility in science. Scientific responsibility is a problem which, in the context of contemporary scientific discourse, demands a dialogue with ethics. This should not result in burdening science but rather in overcoming the antinomies to which science has, often not on its own, lead itself. To accept responsibility and some degree of critical evaluation in the decision making process is not only the strategy of scientific work but mainly the “human” dimension and mission of science. The ethos of science and the ethos of the scientist are directly connected with the issue of scientific responsibility and its different connotations.