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Patenting the Passenger Pigeon: De-extinction, Ethics and Morality

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Shane McCorristineORCiD

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Abstract

Drawing on interviews with the lead scientist working on the active passenger pigeon de-extinction programme, this article will critically assess the potential ethical implications of patenting a de-extinct passenger pigeon under European Patent Law and highlight some of the moral/ethical/animal welfare concerns that are likely to be raised. The article also raises wider questions of whether the unfolding horizon of de-extinction is likely to be influenced by the existing patent law landscape, and argues that certain charismatic species and taxonomic groups may become more likely candidates for de-extinction due to their aesthetic and economic value.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Hlushchenko N, Doyle D, McCorristine S, Healy K

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: European Intellectual Property Review

Year: 2025

Volume: 47

Issue: 5

Pages: 245-250

Online publication date: 01/05/2025

Acceptance date: 01/01/2025

ISSN (print): 0142-0461

Publisher: Sweet & Maxwell

URL: https://search.informit.org/doi/10.3316/informit.T2025051200007801639464384

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