This Is Bioethics

A balanced and student-friendly introduction to the field of bioethics, written by the editors of the field-defining Bioethics journal

The general purpose of ethics is to offer clear guidance--backed by a reasoned justification--when we are faced with a particular ethical problem. Bioethics, a more specialized branch of the wider study of ethics, concentrates on normative issues in the biomedical and life sciences. Bioethicists analyze questions such as "Should editing the human genome be allowed," "Is it ethical to use animals in clinical research," "Is abortion immoral," amongst many others.

This is Bioethics is an ideal introductory textbook for students new to the field, exploring the fundamental questions, concepts, and issues within this dynamic area of study. Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, this accessible volume helps students consider both traditional and cutting-edge questions, develop informed and defensible answers, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a diverse range of bioethical arguments. The authors avoid complex technical terms and jargon in favor of an easy and informal writing style, offering engaging chapters designed to stimulate student interest and encourage class discussion. Students are guided through questions of research ethics, moral standing, genetics, mental health, justice and healthcare, population health, and more. This compelling textbook:



Provides an up-to-date review of "hot topics" in bioethics, including the use of CRISPR for gene editing, conscientious objection in medicine, human enhancement, and euthanasia
Offers overviews of major ethical theories that are influential in today's bioethical debates
Discusses the place of religion in ethics, the relationship between the law and ethics, and ethical relativism in the context of bioethics
Introduces students to common arguments that are prominent in debates, their conceptual basis, and their typical flaws
Includes numerous links, cross-references, further reading suggestions, and guiding questions throughout

This is Bioethics is the ideal primary textbook for undergraduate bioethics and practical ethics courses, and is a must-have reference for students in philosophy, biology, biochemistry, and medicine.