Bioethics

Definition

Bioethics is the study of ethical issues emerging from advances in biology and medicine. It deals with the moral implications of biological research and applications, especially in healthcare.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bioethics encompasses topics such as genetic engineering, stem cell research, and cloning.
2. It addresses questions about the morality of procedures like euthanasia and organ transplantation.
3. Informed consent is a central concept in bioethics, ensuring patients understand and agree to medical treatments.
4. Bioethicists often work on establishing guidelines for ethical conduct in biological research.
5. The field combines knowledge from biology, medicine, philosophy, and law to navigate complex moral issues.

Review Questions

• What are some key topics studied under bioethics?
• Why is informed consent important in bioethics?
• How does bioethics intersect with other fields such as law and philosophy?

Related terms

Genetic Engineering: The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology.

Stem Cell Research: A scientific study focused on understanding the properties of stem cells and their potential use in medicine.

Informed Consent: The process by which a patient voluntarily confirms their willingness to undergo a particular medical intervention after being informed of all possible consequences.