The collection consists of audiovisual recordings related to bioethics, the bulk of which are recordings of lectures delievered at the Kennedy Institute of Ethics (KIE). This includes the KIE's Intensive Bioethics Courses and Advanced Bioethics Courses. The recordings are in a variety of formats, including audio cassettes, compact discs, DVDs, micro cassettes, VHS cassette tapes, 1/4" open reel audio, and other formats.
The collection consists of records related to the Biomedical Ethics Advisory Committee (BEAC). BEAC was formed in 1987 to counsel the congressional members of the national Biomedical Ethics Board on ethical issues that arise in the delivery of healthcare and biomedical research.