Bioethics: All That Matters, new developments in biotechnology like genetics, stem cell research and artificial reproduction arouse both our greatest hopes and our greatest fears. Many people invest the new biotechnology with all the aspirations and faith once accorded to religious salvation. But does everyone benefit equally from scientific progress? Commercialised modern biomedicine runs the risk of exploiting vulnerable groups, from Indian 'surrogate' mothers to professional guinea pigs in drug research. Professor Dickenson argues that although we've entered new scientific territory, there's no need to jettison our existing moral sense.
By discussing a range of real-life cases, she equips readers to make up their own minds on these important and controversial questions. Good science and good ethics needn't be contradictory. This accessible and concise book will appeal to both students and general readers, giving a fascinating introduction to a wide range of perspectives on Bioethics
1. Should we do whatever science lets us do?
2. 'Girls! Sell your eggs and enjoy the nightlife of Chennai!'
3. Designer babies, transhumans and lesser mortals
4. Are genes us?
5. 'Could you pattern the sun?'
6. Snowflakes, techno-coolies and the tooth fairy: some wonders of stem cell science
7. Sacrificial lambs and professional guinea pigs: a bestiary of research bioethics
8. God, Mammon and biotechnology
Professor Donna Dickenson is one of the world's leading authorities in Bioethics. Her academic career spans 40 years and includes over 20 books. She is Emeritus Professor of Medical Ethics and Humanities at the University of London and holds honorary posts at the Universities of Bristol and Oxford. She won the 'International Spinoza Lens Award' in 2006 for her campaigning work.
"an ideal introductory guide to topics such as stem cell technology, reproductive tourism, patent law and cognitive enhancement."
- John Illman, Healthwatch
"This book provides an accessible and readable introduction."
- Soren Holm, Times Higher Education, 20120809