Abstract
Catholic bioethicists have examined specific biomedical technologies (esp. at life’s beginning
and end). But a comprehensive reflection on the phenomenon of biomedical technology
itself is missing. Moreover, a paradox appears operative. Several such technologies are
rejected as unnatural when used to regulate procreation, but deemed a natural form of
intersubjective care and as such obligatory when sustaining life. Given the pervasiveness of
biomedical technology in contemporary health care, an in-depth reflection on this paradox
and the phenomenon of biomedical technology in general is needed. By critically reviewing
the existing Catholic bioethical literature, this paper seeks to contribute to such a
comprehensive ethical analysis.
and end). But a comprehensive reflection on the phenomenon of biomedical technology
itself is missing. Moreover, a paradox appears operative. Several such technologies are
rejected as unnatural when used to regulate procreation, but deemed a natural form of
intersubjective care and as such obligatory when sustaining life. Given the pervasiveness of
biomedical technology in contemporary health care, an in-depth reflection on this paradox
and the phenomenon of biomedical technology in general is needed. By critically reviewing
the existing Catholic bioethical literature, this paper seeks to contribute to such a
comprehensive ethical analysis.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-30 |
Journal | Journal of Religion and Society |
Volume | 17 |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- artificial nutrition and hydration
- artificial reproductive technology
- bioethics
- Biomedical Technology
- Catholicism
- life-sustaining technology