Controlling birth: science, politics, and public policy

J Soc Issues. 2005 Mar;61(1):181-91. doi: 10.1111/j.0022-4537.2005.00400.x.

Abstract

Reproductive technologies raise a host of social and legal issues that challenge basic values and create intense controversy. If researchers wish to inform public policies related to reproductive technologies, they must understand how the scientific enterprise is being manipulated and research findings are being misrepresented to justify a particular social agenda and restrict access to contraception and abortion. To counter these distortions, scientists must defend the science advisory process, be involved in dissemination of their research findings beyond simply publication in scientific journals, and actively work to ensure that the findings are not misrepresented to the public.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced* / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Advisory Committees
  • Contraception*
  • Deception
  • Federal Government
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Information Dissemination
  • Peer Review, Research
  • Politics*
  • Pregnancy
  • Public Policy*
  • Reproductive Rights
  • Science
  • Sexual Behavior
  • United States
  • Women's Health
  • Women's Rights