Abstract
An analysis of patient autonomy through the lens of the theology of vulnerability and the Trinitarian approach to holistic healthcare decisions.
Keywords: Autonomy, Vulnerability, Contemporary Bioethics, Human Dignity, imago Dei, Trinitarian Theology
Abstract
One’s view of the link between sex and reproduction typically correlates with one’s stance on birth control and assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF. While the Roman Catholic Church holds a clear conviction regarding these technologies and interventions, Protestant (bio)ethicists and individuals alike vary in their viewpoints. When it comes to contraception, Protestants typically fall into three categories: completely against, completely in support, or allowed with restrictions. Opinions on assisted reproduction typically are affirmative or opposed. Through an examination of historical landmarks and varying Protestant perspectives, this article demonstrates how one’s theology of sexuality, or lack thereof, influences reproductive decisions.
Keywords: contraception, sexuality, assisted reproduction, women’s health, reproductive technologies, religious ethics
Abstract
The use of empirical data in ethics is on the rise. At the same time, its role in “discovering the good” is much debated. Many scholars—especially those rooted in a modernist, liberal philosophical thinking and influenced by the natural sciences discourse—claim that ethicists should detach from their own considered moral judgments. Others are in favor of disclosing one’s own moral presuppositions in advance. Both positions can be difficult for Christian and other religious ethicists. Detachment could make ethical reflection meaningless and disclosure could alienate the ethicist from their interlocutors. In this article, we propose a four-step framework for the meaningful synthesis of empirical knowledge and ethical reflection. As a case, we use materials from our recently published collection of lived experiences of relatives of patients who received euthanasia.
Keywords: Ethics, Empirical Knowledge, Euthanasia, Theological Ethics, Detachment
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (“puberty blockers”) have rapidly become the preferred method of treatment for childhood gender nonconformity or for teenagers experiencing various levels of gender dysphoria. Use of these drugs raises questions regarding the ability of prepubescent children to give an informed consent to life-altering interventions with unknown future effects. The article argues the use of puberty blockers fails to meet the standard of informed consent.
Keywords: Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analogs, Puberty Blockers, Informed Consent, Gender Affirmative Model.
Abstract
Flourishing and contentment are connected but distinct. In Christian perspective, the goal of human enhancement is not conducive to human flourishing, whereas a therapeutic approach to the body is. However, the virtue of contentment means willingness to forgo even therapeutic treatment under certain circumstances. This article attempts to argue for these conclusions with reference to the contrast between the natural and the transhuman and by considering the significance of disability and the church as the body of Christ.
Keywords: Contentment, Enhancement, Flourishing, Nature, Therapy, Transhumanism
Abstract
Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), also known as mitochondrial donation (MD), is promoted as an option to prevent transmission of mitochondrial disorders to offspring. Since its first reported use in humans, MRT has raised numerous ethical and medical concerns. This article will explore the technology behind MRT and arguments in favor of and opposing it, concluding that a response through the lens of Scripture promotes flourishing of individuals and families affected by mitochondrial disorders without sacrificing others in the process.
Keywords: Mitochondrial Disorders, Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy, DNA, Embryo, Germ Line, Disability, Parenthood
Abstract
The end of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to be achieved through large-scale vaccination of the global population. So far vaccination against COVID-19 has been shown to reduce mortality and morbidity, minimize economic and social burdens, and ensure that people resume their everyday activities. Fair and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines is critical in ensuring ethical distribution globally. This paper discusses ethical allocation of COVID-19 vaccines, focusing on models that have been proposed for global allocation, as well as provides a discussion on a Christian response to the pandemic.
Keywords: COVID-19 Pandemic, SARS-CoV-2, Vaccines, Global allocation, Vaccine Hesitancy, Equity, Justice
The social effects of the pandemic have exacerbated the ability and desire to overcome empathy fatigue and, consequently, have engendered more indifference towards others and isolationism among the population. These effects challenge society’s moral resolve to care for others. In this paper I present two ethical explanations of the basis of morality and moral action—Immanuel Kant’s ethic of pure will (conscience) and John Duns Scotus’ ethic of an ontology of love, and endeavor to show that a morality based solely on our rationally justifiable conscience does not adequately compel us to overcome empathy fatigue, whereas a morality based on an acknowledgement and affirmation of the lovableness of others can propel us to overcome empathy fatigue.
Christians view sickness as a part of life. Yet, modern medicine finds little purpose in the embodied human who is also a spiritual being. While Christians live with the two-fold reality that sickness and death will occur, they do not need to languish without medical treatment.
Biomedical enhancements have the potential to extend human capacities and significantly improve human life. Consequently, their widespread use may yield greater benefits than current interventions in biopharmaceutical medicine. Ethical assessment of novel biomedical technologies prior to widespread adoption is therefore important.