Human Value Bioethics

Human Value Bioethics

How does your worldview of human value affect your beliefs about bioethical issues, such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research?

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to the “Discussion Question Rubric” and “Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.

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APA

My worldview on human value is rooted in the belief that all individuals, regardless of their stage of development or health status, possess intrinsic worth. This view is grounded in Christian ethics, which holds that humans are made in the image of God and therefore deserve dignity and respect. This perspective profoundly influences my beliefs about bioethical issues such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research.

Regarding abortion, my belief in the inherent value of human life from conception leads me to oppose abortion, except in certain extreme cases where the life of the mother is at risk. The sanctity of life is foundational, and I view the unborn as possessing moral status deserving of protection (Harris, 2013).

Similarly, when considering the issue of designer babies, the idea of selecting traits based on preference raises ethical concerns about commodifying human life. My worldview affirms that every human being should be valued for who they are, not their utility or perfection. Genetic modifications for non-medical reasons challenge the intrinsic worth of human beings and could lead to a society where individuals are valued based on arbitrary traits (Brock, 2006).

In the case of stem cell research, particularly embryonic stem cell research, my belief in the sanctity of life leads me to question the ethics of using embryos for research purposes. While the potential medical benefits are significant, the destruction of embryos for research conflicts with the view that human life, even in its earliest stages, has intrinsic value.

In conclusion, my worldview emphasizes the inherent dignity of all human beings, which deeply influences my approach to bioethical issues. Decisions in these areas should prioritize respect for human life and recognize its value beyond mere utility or convenience.

References

Brock, D. W. (2006). Genetic interventions and human nature. Cambridge University Press.
Harris, J. (2013). The value of life: An introduction to bioethics. Routledge.