Renowned Philosopher and Writer to Lecture in Saskatoon

Posted August 15, 2000


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 14, 2000 2000-08-01-OTHER

Renowned Philosopher and Writer to Lecture in Saskatoon

The University of Saskatchewan has invited an internationally renowned
philosopher and writer who specializes in medical ethics and feminist issues
to be this year?s Whelen lecturer: Dr. Mary B. Mahowald.

Dr. Mahowald is also a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology at the MacLean Centre for Clinical and Medical Ethics and a
member of the Committee on Genetics at the University of Chicago. She is
regularly involved in cases that raise ethical questions.

Dr. Mahowald will give four lectures while in Saskatoon, all of which are
open to faculty, students and interested members of the public, free of
charge.

The first two lectures - one on bioethical issues and the other on classical
pragmatism and feminism - will be presented on September 11 at Place Riel
Theatre on campus. They will be of particular interest to high school and
university students and will have an informal/discussion format.

A third lecture is planned for September 12 at The Royal University
Hospital, Mall Theatre. It will explore the ethical, social and clinical
issues surrounding testing for late onset disorders, disclosure of
misattributed paternity and access to genetic services.

Later, at 7:00 p.m., Dr. Mahowald will present her main lecture at the Delta
Bessborough Hotel entitled Just Genes? Gender, Ability, and Class
differences in the New Genetics. This lecture is intended primarily for the
public. It will explore issues of topical interest that focus on the
differences associated with inequality and how genetic discrimination can be
avoided.

The Whelen Lecture was established in 1987 through a bequest from a
distinguished alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. Myron Whelen.
Its mandate is to bring internationally recognized authorities in
disciplines taught at the University to the U of S campus.

Peter MacKinnon, University President, said: "We are honoured that Dr.
Mahowald is able to share her knowledge and experience with the University,
the people of Saskatoon and the province."

For more information, or to arrange a media interview, please contact:

Tina Merrifield
Office of Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2213

or
Christine Anderson-Obach
Extension Division
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5530