Contemporary Issues in Biomedical Ethics

Contemporary Issues in Biomedical Ethics introduces students to the essential components of bioethics, blending philosophy, law, biology, and medicine to address ethical concerns in the healthcare and biomedical research fields.

Through a curated collection of readings, the book examines significant moral principles like autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, veracity, and confidentiality—aspects integral to moral determination in the context of healthcare and medical decision-making. It navigates complex ethical theories, including utilitarianism, virtue ethics, feminist ethics, Kantian ethics, and the moral theology of various traditions to establish a multi-faceted perspective for ethical analysis.

Additional chapters address the delicate balance between patient autonomy and paternalism, the intricacies of confidentiality and truth-telling, and the rigorous process of obtaining informed consent. Human research ethics, genetic considerations, and the rapidly evolving field of reproductive technology are explored in depth. The book also addresses the morally heavy topics of abortion, death, dying, access to care, and the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals, culminating in a discussion on future trends in health care.

Contemporary Issues in Biomedical Ethics is ideal for courses that require a robust understanding of ethical frameworks and their applications such as courses in bioethics, medical law, and health sciences, where ethical competence is critical.