A Theory of Bioethics

Reviews / Votes

'DeGrazia and Millum are distinguished philosophers who, in this superb book, develop and defend a pluralistic ethical theory that is respectful of common sense moral beliefs without being subservient to them. They test and refine the theory by exploring its implications for a variety of controversial issues and, in the process, substantially advance our understanding of numerous bioethical problems. They are never dogmatic. Their lucidly written book instead provides much-needed guidance for careful moral reflection on issues of the greatest importance.' Jeff McMahan, White's Professor of Moral Philosophy, University of Oxford 'For too long, bioethics has been in the thrall of the four principles of autonomy, beneficience, non-maleficence and justice. With a broader philosophical perspective and more rigorous analysis, DeGrazia and Millum bring bioethics into the 21st century. They integrate a richer understanding of ethics, including well-being and non-identity, with application to a wider range of the most pressing bioethical issues of the day, such as how we should treat animals, fetuses, and enhancements. This book is a much needed advance for bioethics.' Ezekiel J. Emmanuel M.D., Ph.D. 'well worth reading for its in-depth discussions of many theoretical and practical issues.' Bonnie Steinbock, Bioethics '... DeGrazia and Millum's analysis provides beginner and intermediate students in bioethics with a valuable overview of topics, as well as the most common approaches to resolving debated issues in bioethics. Their sources give intermediate and advanced students a well-selected reading list if they would like to read more on any given topic, and their approach integrates (successfully, in many cases) philosophical reflection and empirical data necessary to applied ethics. There is much to applaud in this new theory of bioethics.' Caitlin Maples, Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics