Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences SAMS
Ineffectiveness and unlikelihood of benefit: dealing with the concept of futility in medicine
Ineffectiveness and unlikelihood of benefits in treatment are part of medicine. Often this topic is described by the generic term of medical futility. The counselling and support of patients and their relatives in situations where medical treatment may be ineffective is an inherent task of medicine. Involved professionals bear a special professional and ethical responsibility in this matter. In addition to the theoretical background, which critically examines the concept of futility, the publication illustrates concrete examples. The SAMS thus offers practical advice in the hope that this approach will lead to a fundamental reflection on how to deal with ineffectiveness and unlikelihood of benefit in medicine.
Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences (SAMS) (2021) Ineffectiveness and unlikelihood of benefit: dealing with the concept of futility in medicine. Swiss Academies Communications 16 (6).
Swiss Young Academy SYA
Compassionate Science - Integrating Empathy and Compassion in Research
This report explores how empathy and compassion shape research practices across disciplines. Drawing on a review of existing literature and illustrative examples from early-career researchers, it shows that empathy and compassion are not abstract ideals but practical dimensions of research that can influence study design, relationships, data interpretation, and knowledge translation. Across fields, integrating these dimensions can strengthen trust, deepen understanding, improve collaboration, and enhance ethical reflexivity.
Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences a+
STEM 2026: Where Switzerland stands today
Twelve years on from the first STEM Youth Barometer, the new 2026 edition reveals that interest in STEM has remained largely stable, stereotypes persist, and women underestimate their own abilities. At the same time, the findings are more nuanced than expected and point to clear areas for improvement.
Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
Beyond the transaction: commodity trade and sustainable development
This factsheet maps the sustainability links of commodity trade, identifies knowledge gaps, and outlines options for commodity hubs, including Switzerland, to reduce economic, environmental and social sustainability risks.