Module # 3 Weblog # 1

CMAJ

The ethics of research involving Canada’s Aboriginal populations

http://www.cmaj.ca/cgi/content/full/172/8/977

This is a letter, published by the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) that discusses terminology. The author expresses her concern about the term Aboriginality in medical journals and studies.  “Aboriginality” is a social construct with little grounding in the day-to-day realities of the heterogeneous groups to which it refers. Tremendous cultural, historical, socioeconomic and political diversity exists between and within these groups.”

Another aspect of this article is that the author talks about the ways that academic research will have to evolve to create an appropriate relationship with Aboriginal communities. “I have come to understand that it is only through an approach of mutual understanding, respect and partnership that academic research will be able to contribute to improving the health outcomes in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.”

I chose this letter because I fell that it relates strongly and offers a strong viewpoint towards the discussion of appropriate research in Aboriginal communities. This is an interesting viewpoint because it represents an opinion on research relating to medical studies.