One considers both the Tuskegee and Stanford experiments as unethical and inhuman. Both experiments are against human rights. Those who designed the experiments failed to realize what bad effects their experiments will have on their subjects. With regards to the Tuskegee experiment, one thinks that no experiment should be allowed if it will result in the death of those who will participate. It is cruelty at its peak. The participants of the Tuskegee experiment were not informed properly of what the purpose of the experiment is and what they will be subjected to. The experiment took advantage of the innocence of these poor black men. They were not informed that even the health of their wives and children may be severely affected by the experiment. The doctors could have treated the participants, since the cure for syphilis is already identified, but they refused to do so. The Tuskegee experiment may also be viewed as downright racism.
The Stanford experiment, like the Tuskegee experiment exploited the innocence of its participants. The Stanford experiment abused the young students who participated. The author of the experiment did not foresee the psychological and emotional effects his experiment might have on the participant. The “prisoners” were subjected to tremendous stress and anxiety. Because the participants were young adults, they were not in control of their emotions and were confused about what they were feeling and experiencing.
These two experiments clearly show the importance of research review boards. The research review boards should ensure that the participants of an experiment are not deprived of their human rights. They must make sure that the guidelines are followed so that the participants do not suffer unduly from the experiment, even after the experiment is finished. The review boards must see to it that the experiments follow the right protocols.
Works Cited
The Stanford prison experiment. (2012, August 28). Retrieved from youtube.com: http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=VYv3J12pARM&feature=fvwp
The Tuskegee syphillis project. (2011, April 29). Retrieved from youtube.com: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-YMdaEdbcg&feature=related
