Due Date: 14-May-2021 at 11:59:59 PM According to your worldview, what value does a human person have? How does your position affect your stance on controversial bioethical issues, such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research? Based on “Case Study: Fetal Abnormality” and the required topic study materials, write a 750-1,000-word reflection that answers the following questions: Must use study material URL:
According to my worldview, a human person has intrinsic value and worth. This means that every individual possesses a fundamental worth simply by virtue of being human. This value is not contingent upon a person’s abilities, characteristics, or circumstances, but rather stems from their inherent dignity and moral status as a rational being.
My position on the value of a human person significantly influences my stance on controversial bioethical issues, including abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research.
In the case of abortion, my worldview considers the unborn fetus as a human person with intrinsic value and worth. From the moment of conception, the unborn has the same inherent dignity and moral status as any other human being. Therefore, I would view abortion as morally wrong, as it involves the intentional termination of a human life with intrinsic value.
Regarding designer babies, which involves using genetic manipulation to enhance the traits and characteristics of a future child, my worldview raises ethical concerns. While innovation in genetic technologies can bring significant benefits, such as preventing genetic diseases, the boundary lies in altering the nature of the individual by selecting specific traits. This manipulation could undermine the inherent dignity and value of the person created, as it suggests that some traits are more desirable than others. Additionally, it may lead to inequalities and discrimination based on genetic characteristics. Therefore, my stance on designer babies would be cautious and mindful of these potential ethical implications.
As for stem cell research, my worldview recognizes the potential benefits of scientific advancements in this field, particularly in the treatment of various diseases and medical conditions. However, my position takes into account the ethical considerations surrounding the source of stem cells. The use of embryonic stem cells, obtained through the destruction of human embryos, conflicts with my belief in the intrinsic value of human life from the moment of conception. Therefore, I would support and encourage alternative methods that do not involve the destruction of human embryos, such as adult stem cell research and induced pluripotent stem cells.
Analyzing the “Case Study: Fetal Abnormality” and the required topic study materials, this reflection aims to further explore the ethical complexities surrounding the issues of abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research.
Firstly, in the case of abortion, the scenario presents a couple who has learned that their unborn child has a severe malformation, diagnosed with bilateral renal agenesis. This condition leaves the child with a low chance of survival after birth and a life riddled with significant health complications if they do survive. The parents are faced with a difficult decision regarding whether to proceed with the pregnancy or to terminate it.
From my perspective, the inherent value and dignity of the unborn child remain unchanged, regardless of the health condition or prognosis. While the couple’s anguish and emotional turmoil are undoubtedly heart-wrenching, my position would still lean towards respecting the sanctity of human life. I would argue that terminating the pregnancy, in this case, would involve the intentional ending of a human life with intrinsic worth. However, it is crucial to approach such situations with empathy, compassion, and support for the parents as they navigate this challenging journey.
Secondly, the topic study materials provide insights into the ethical challenges surrounding designer babies. In the pursuit of perfecting genetic traits, the boundaries of unlocking human potential can blur. This raises questions of ethical responsibility and the potential for creating a society that values certain traits over others. As my worldview emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, the concept of manipulating and selecting specific traits in future children raises concerns about valuing individuals based on their genetic makeup.
Furthermore, the materials shed light on the advancements and ethical implications of stem cell research. The use of embryonic stem cells presents a moral dilemma as it involves the destruction of human embryos, which conflicts with my belief in the intrinsic value and worth of human life. However, research using adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells offers promising alternatives without violating these ethical principles.
In conclusion, my worldview acknowledges the intrinsic value and worth of every human person. This fundamental belief significantly influences my stance on controversial bioethical issues such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research. While recognizing the complexity of these issues, I strive to approach them with a deep sense of moral responsibility and respect for the inherent dignity of every individual.