161-024 Issues in Biomedical Ethics

Note

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

A first year single-semester philosophy subject. Students who lack this prerequisite, but believe themselves adequately prepared to attempt second/third year subjects, should consult the head of department.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

The course will examine a number of theoretical ethical issues that arise from the beginning to the end of life and use contemporary ethical theory to analyse them. It will ask questions like: (1) Can it ever be wrong to create someone? Even if that person has a life worth living? (2) Is it morally acceptable to choose whom to create on the basis of such things as health status, intelligence, or gender? (3) Is it morally acceptable or even morally required to enhance the people who are going to be created anyway? (4) What is the moral status of the fetus? (5) What is the moral significance for abortion of the fact that the fetus is dependent upon the woman? (6) Suppose that we could, via a genetic test, find out exactly when we will die or find out a lot about our abilities and psychological characteristics; should we have the test? (8) When, if ever, is euthanasia morally acceptable? (9) Is there a morally significant difference between killing and letting die? Between intending death and foreseeing death? The course is designed to understand the theoretical bases of disputes in these controversial areas, not to advocate particular answers.

Assessment

Written work totalling 4000 words and participation in tutorials.