What is science ethics? Science-society relations and public debate. The role of definition: the case of nanomaterials and synthetic biology. Four pillars of definition: life, intentionality, complexity, modularity. Biosafety: the case of synthetic H5N1. Legal aspects. Distributive justice issues around artemisinin. The living in narratives.

Synthetic H5N1. Knowledge of living organisms, their research and effects. The legal framework and its application. Public debate and debate between scientists: a deontological picture. Is risk assessment effective? The American NSABB, its role and the emerging case of CRISPR-Cas9. The researcher's responsibility.

In 2013, an article accused the low-dose debate of being steeped in “ridiculous myths”. The author, who seems traumatized by the state of science-society relations, denounces “convictions, enemies of truth more dangerous than lies”. Such a virulent expression should prompt the scientific community, particularly those working on the issue of low doses, to ask themselves whether it is appropriate to flout to such an extent the various “convictions” that influence risk perception. Are myths really so ridiculous?

Between reality and utopia, research into robotics and, more generally, artificial intelligence is attracting a great deal of attention. Starting with visions of augmented man, I propose an analysis of the ethical issues surrounding robotics, leading to concrete recommendations for researchers, based on the Cerna report. I criticize the concept of the robot as a rival to man, and put forward an alternative scheme based on the notion of imitation.