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A philosophical survey of some of the major ethical issues confronting modern medicine. The unit focuses on three main areas: assisted reproductive technologies and genetics, including cloning; decisions regarding the end of life; and matters of social justice, such as the rationing of health care. Much of the debate on these issues has been in terms of individual liberty, control, choice, rights and contracts. The unit explores the possibility that moral questions related to bioethical issues, and their possible answers, can be framed with respect to both individual and community considerations. These altemative understandings of the beginning and the end of human life are developed through the examination of the values that families serve, such as loyalty, affection, trust, care and nurturing.
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