German scientists collaborated with Nazis
Historical study documents politicised research
A seven-year-long investigation of Germany’s largest research organisation has confirmed that scientists worked hand in hand with the Nazi regime in order to conduct lethal experiments. The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft remains Germany’s major funding body, with a budget of about US$1.9 billion. The study found that after Hitler assumed power, the foundation collaborated “almost completely and without scruple”.
Close cooperation with politicians began in the 20s, when Germany was struggling to cope with its loss in World War I. Scientists of the time felt that their work should support national interests. When the Nazis came to power, many scientists sought funding for projects which would be popular with the new regime. Medical researchers focused mainly on genetics, in line with the Nazis’ racist ideology. “The scientists clearly used the totalitarian system to have the freedom of conducting lethal experiments,” says Wolfgang Eckart, of Heidelberg University. ~ BMJ, Feb 16
Creative commons
Nazi doctors
- How long can you put off seeing the doctor because of lockdowns? - December 3, 2021
- House of Lords debates assisted suicide—again - October 28, 2021
- Spanish government tries to restrict conscientious objection - October 28, 2021
More Stories
What is that bright light at the end of the tunnel?
Reports of near-death experiences -- with tales of white light, visits from departed loved ones, hearing voices, seeing Heaven --...
Why is California lagging behind Canada in assisted dying?
In 2016 both Canada and California legalized assisted dying. But from then to 2021, 31,664 Canadians – 3.3% of all...
Canadian prisoners are choosing euthanasia but the public is none the wiser
Canada is the only country which regards euthanasia for people incarcerated in prisons as a human right. Nine prisoners have...
Is Mother’s Day more fun when there are three of them?
A New Zealand court has approved an adoption of a boy named Kaspar who has three mothers. The first is...
Portugal on the brink of legalizing euthanasia
For the fifth time, Portugal's parliament has approved a bill legalising euthanasia. It passed with a comfortable majority -- 129...
Spanish governments lock horns over euthanasia for the disabled
Canada is not the only country caught up in a debate about euthanasia for people with disabilities. In Spain, the...