The Power of Silence

Florence Ashley

doi:10.7202/1110334ar

The Power of Silence

Florence Ashley Faculty of Law, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9189-967X

DOI: https://doi.org/10.7202/1110334ar

Keywords: public education, professional obligations, misinformation, marginalized groups, transgender people

Language(s): English

Abstract

In conversation with Hortense Gallois’ recent essay on the importance of bioethicists participating in public discourse, I suggest that speaking up is as fraught as it is important. Focusing on the anti-trans movement’s misuse of expertise, I highlight the fine line between correcting misinformation and inadvertently causing harm through ill-timed speech. Drawing on the work of Eva Feder Kittay, I suggest that knowing when to speak up and when to stay silent starts with understanding the communities we speak about and the consequences that our words can have on them.

Published

2024-03-18

How to Cite

[1]

Ashley F. The Power of Silence. Can. J. Bioeth. 2024;7:56-7. https://doi.org/10.7202/1110334ar.

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Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2024): Dialogue with Future Bioethicists

Section

"Response to" Commentaries

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