1. To define and consider bioethical issues arising from emerging biometric identification technologies.
2. To survey the current field of research, in particular, to review:
a) the evidence for the importance of biometric identification technologies for security purposes in the biomedical field;
b) the evidence for the importance of biometric identification technologies to avoid illicit use of social welfare and medical support ;
c) the basis for using biometric technologies as a source of biomedical information about individuals;
3. To consider potential applications of biometric identification technologies and the risk of function creep and data misuse.
4. To consider:
a) the ethics of the informatization of the body;
b) the ethical implications of applying biometrics to verify and authenticate identities in the medical and social care sector;
c) the ethical impact of biometric technologies on vulnerable groups;
d) the broader impact of biometrics on those with relevant physical characteristics and special needs, including questions about stigma.