U3 AOS1 Topic 1: Bioethics

Ethics is a field of knowledge that helps us to differentiate between right and wrong

Applied ethics: application of ethical theories to real life problems

Ethics are an important part of biology as it will provide scientists with a framework to justify their decisions and tell them how to perform certain tasks

Bioethical issue an ethical practice that involves decision making between more than one choice.

There are three types of approaches to bioethics that we need to be aware of in biology

consequences–based approach an approach that will aim to maximize positive outcomes and stay away from negative ones

Duty/rule-based this approach focuses on following a set of rules without caring much about the consequences

virtues–based approach an approach that is driven by the individual goodness of the agent rather than following a set of rules

These approaches serve as a framework for research in biology

 

There are five ethical concepts that are often used in conjunction with the three approaches to bioethics

Integrity this ethical concept encourages individuals to act honestly while presenting their research and it encourages individuals to present knowledge without caring for their position

Justice This concept encourages consideration of different people’s opinions and positions, especially those people who are directly affected by an action

Beneficence this ethical concept encourages individuals to benefit others from their actions

Non–maleficence this ethical concept encourages individuals to not harm others, and if harm is unavoidable in some cases, this concept encourages to minimize the harm caused.

Respect this concept encourages individuals to consider the values of others