The role of philosophy in global bioethics: introducing four trends

Camb Q Healthc Ethics. 2015 Apr;24(2):185-94. doi: 10.1017/S0963180114000498.

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between philosophy and culture in global bioethics. First, it studies what is meant by the term "global" in global bioethics. Second, the author introduces four different types, or recognizable trends, in philosophical inquiry in bioethics today. The main argument is that, in order to make better sense of the complexity of the ethical questions and challenges we face today across the globe, we need to embrace the universal nature of self-critical and analytical philosophical analysis and argumentation, rather than using seemingly philosophical approaches to give unjustified normative emphasis on different cultural approaches to bioethics.

Keywords: Odera Oruka.

MeSH terms

  • Bioethics* / trends
  • Cultural Characteristics*
  • Cultural Diversity*
  • Ethical Analysis*
  • Ethical Theory*
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Internationality*
  • Morals
  • Philosophy*
  • Social Values