Bioethics addresses the ethical issues that arise out of health care and research that touches upon human life. Ethics is about considering what we ought to do for the true good of the human person and the human community.
The issues which bioethics considers include:
- abortion
- euthanasia
- care of the dying
- nutrition and hydration
- living wills
- assisted reproductive technologies
- research on humans
- cloning
- many more
Bioethics Resource
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has its own Bioethics Centre. The Queensland Bioethics Centre was established by Archbishop Rush in 1981.
The centre provides:
- regular briefings on current bioethical issues
- an up-to-date resource library
- workshops for professional and community groups and parishes
- an online resource centre
Introduction to bioethics for school groups can be arranged by appointment.
For more information see the Queensland Bioethics Centre website.
Action
Many of the issues in bioethics touch upon public policy. We all have the potential to play a part in forming public policy through our elected members of parliament and through groups which advocate respect for all human life, for example Cherish Life Queensland.
The Queensland Bioethics Centre can advise you on contacting your local members of parliament or advocacy and/or support groups.