Complete your required discussion prompt:
This week, we are learning about issues surrounding human genetics and eugenics, including stem cell research, cloning, and genetic testing and treatment.
Prompt 1: Prenatal Testing and Kantian Deontology
Prenatal testing allows for the detection of genetic conditions in fetuses. Increased detection can lead to an increase in abortions for these conditions. Analyze this issue from the perspective of Kantian Deontology.
Can abortion of a fetus with a genetic condition ever be considered a moral duty according to Kant’s categorical imperative? Why or why not?
How would Kant apply the concept of universal law to the decision of whether or not to terminate a pregnancy following a positive prenatal test result?
Are there any circumstances where terminating a pregnancy due to a genetic condition might violate the inherent dignity of the fetus?
Prompt 2: Eugenics and Social Contract Theory
Eugenics, the practice of improving the gene pool, can involve restricting reproduction of individuals with certain traits. Explore the ethical implications of eugenics through the lens of Social Contract Theory.
Could there ever be a social contract that justifies limitations on reproductive freedom based on eugenics?
What principles of justice would need to be upheld in such a contract to ensure fairness and prevent discrimination?
How would individual liberty be balanced with the potential benefits of eugenics for society as a whole?
Prompt 3: Prenatal Testing and Care Ethics
Care Ethics emphasizes the importance of relationships and maintaining well-being within those relationships. Analyze the ethics of prenatal testing and potential abortion decisions from the perspective of Care Ethics.
How might care ethics inform the relationship between a pregnant person, their fetus, and healthcare professionals involved in prenatal testing and abortion decisions?
How can the emotional well-being of all parties involved be considered when navigating positive prenatal test results?
Are there alternative approaches to caring for individuals facing difficult decisions due to prenatal testing results that align with Care Ethics principles?
3) Prompt on Cloning using Social Contract Theory: Social Contract Theory examines the moral obligations and agreements that individuals have towards one another within a society. Evaluate the ethical implications of cloning within the framework of social contract theory. Discuss the potential benefits and risks of cloning technology, including its applications in medicine, agriculture, and conservation. Analyze how societal norms, values, and expectations shape attitudes towards cloning, and consider the role of government regulation in balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations. Discuss how a social contract approach can help identify the rights and responsibilities of individuals and institutions involved in cloning research and implementation, and how it can contribute to the development of ethical guidelines that promote the well-being and interests of society as a whole.
4) Prompt on Stem Cell Research using Care Ethics: Care Ethics emphasizes the importance of relationships, empathy, and care in moral decision-making. Analyze the ethical considerations surrounding stem cell research within the framework of care ethics. Discuss the potential benefits of stem cell research in advancing medical treatments and therapies for a wide range of diseases and injuries. Consider the moral responsibilities of researchers, policymakers, and society as a whole in ensuring that stem cell research is conducted ethically and with sensitivity towards the well-being of all stakeholders, including donors, patients, and future generations. Discuss how care ethics can inform decision-making in stem cell research, emphasizing the importance of compassion, solidarity, and the recognition of interconnectedness in promoting responsible and ethically sound scientific practices.
