PoPulationand Public HealtH etHics

practice
Case discussion in response to
alberta oil sanDs
Colin L. Soskolne, Ph.D
School of Public Health, University of Alberta
Edmonton AB
ColIn.soskolne@ualBeRta.Ca
Prelude
Ethics case analyses can proceed in either of two possible ways: by using
a principle-based approach 1 or by casuistry. 2 I will use the principle-based
approach, drawing on the bioethical principles of respect for autonomy, beneficence,
non-maleficence and distributive/social justice (i.e., fairness/equity that
raises the two questions: Whose interests are being served? Who is deriving
the benefits while who is taking the risks?). Related to each of these four principles
are the additional sub-principles that are relevant in the analysis of this
case study: inter-generational equity (under justice), the seventh-generation
principle (under both justice and non-maleficence), the precautionary principle
(under both respect for autonomy and non-maleficence) and the principle
of solidarity (under both respect for autonomy and justice). 3 The principle
of respect for autonomy stands in contrast to the principle of paternalism.
Ethical analysis falls under the general area of applied ethics. Applied ethics
is context-dependent in that local norms usually take precedence over universal
norms; this is more commonly seen in the role of Human Research Ethics
Boards (HReBs). However, the primacy of local norms can cause tension when
considered under the principle of solidarity. Because the oil industry has
global ramifications in terms of the global demand for oil, this case must be
properly situated not only in the context of the province of Alberta, but also
in the context of Canada and the world. This approach thus helps to ensure
that the complex array of over-laying contexts is duly considered.
PoPulation anD Public HealtH etHics
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