Havi Carel announces workshop, discussion and public lecture by Anya Plutynski, chaired by Julian Baggini, in Bristol, 29 January 2020.
The day is co-hosted by the Centre for Science and Philosophy, the Centre for Health, Humanities and Science, the Department of Philosophy and the Life of Breath project.
‘Cancer and Complexity’ workshop and public lecture
Wills Memorial Building, University of Bristol,
29 January
Workshop: Philosophy of Cancer Biology
29 January, 13.00 – 17.00
Wills Memorial Building, Room G.38
> Anya Plutynski (Washington):”Why precision oncology is not very precise”
> Samir Okasha (Bristol):”Cancer, evolutionary conflict, and levels of selection”
> Lucie Laplane (Paris):”Cancer and stem cells”
> Sabina Leonelli (Exeter): “Actionable data for precision oncology: building trustworthy evidence for diverse research spaces”
Public Lecture: Why Precision Medicine is not Very Precise (and why this should not surprise us)
29 January, 18.00 -19.30
Wills Memorial Building, Reception Room
> Anya Plutynski (Washington University in St Louis)
> Chair: Julian Baggini
Abstract
Precision medicine has created a lot of hope, especially for cancer patients. In the ideal case, there is one comprehensive test provided to patients, a clear-cut prognosis, one clearly preferred targeted therapy, and outcomes will be ideal. I will argue that in the vast majority of cases, what we actually find, and indeed ought to expect, are rather different outcomes. Decisions about treatment are complex, there are moderate improvements in survival in the vast majority of cases, and indeed, very few cancer patients are likely to benefit. This talk will explain why this is true, and why this should (by now) not surprise us. I then offer advice for patients and families, and for researchers and policy makers, to ensure better communication about this difficult process.
Followed by a panel discussion with:
> James Brennan (clinical psychologist)
> Heidi Loughlin (author and patient)
> Karoline Wiesner (Reader in Complexity Sciences, UoB)
There will be coffee and tea served from 5.30 and a wine reception after the event.
The Wills Memorial Building is wheelchair accessible and there are porters at the entrance. There is a lift at the back of the buildings. Toilets are located on the ground floor.
For any access requirements and more details and to register for the workshop, please email Charlotte Withers ([email protected]).
To register for the public lecture go to EventBright.