Bioethics Debates and Arguments

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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of a 'knock-down' argument in bioethics?

It is considered decisive but may lack validity. (correct)

It is always valid and universally accepted.

It requires extensive prior knowledge to understand.

It is based on emotional appeal rather than logical reasoning.

Which of the following best describes the argument against 'playing God'?

It promotes the idea of scientific exploration and innovation.

It argues that all technologies are ethically permissible.

It advocates for using new technologies to enhance human life.

It suggests that individuals should not make decisions on the worth of others' lives. (correct)

Which fallacy is associated with the claim that certain technologies are 'unnatural' or 'abnormal'?

Ad hominem fallacy

Naturalistic fallacy (correct)

Slippery slope fallacy

Straw man fallacy

What does the term 'human dignity' signify in bioethics?

A synonym for respect for personal autonomy Signup and view all the answers

Critics argue that 'human dignity' is often used in bioethical arguments to:

Limit innovation or prohibit specific actions Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of interfering with nature as suggested by the argument against 'playing God'?

It poses the risk of unforeseen negative consequences. Signup and view all the answers

How is the term 'unnatural' commonly used in bioethical arguments?

To label certain technologies as morally wrong Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with the 'knock-down' arguments in bioethics?

They may not hold up under critical scrutiny. Signup and view all the answers

What are Nazi arguments typically used for in bioethics discussions?

To end a debate by equating a position to Nazi actions Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of slippery slope arguments?

They suggest that one action will inevitably lead to a negative outcome Signup and view all the answers

Which type of slippery slope argument suggests that vague criteria may result in abusive practices?

Conceptual slippery slope arguments Signup and view all the answers

According to Kant, when should humanity never be treated as a means?

Regardless of the outcome Signup and view all the answers

How are causal slippery slope arguments often criticized?

They confuse correlation with causation Signup and view all the answers

Why is treating someone as an end important in bioethics?

It respects individuals as autonomous beings Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception exists about the Kantian principle regarding treating others?

That it always prevents using individuals as means Signup and view all the answers

What is a major flaw in slippery slope arguments according to the content?

They typically fail to establish a credible connection between actions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Knock-down Arguments

Knock-down arguments are decisive and should bring about agreement
They lack "defeaters" suggesting everyone who understands the argument will agree with it

"Playing God" Argument

Often used when making decisions about life or death, or applying new technologies
Argues against human interference with nature and suggests possible adverse consequences

Unnatural and Abnormal Argument

Claims that using certain technologies is morally wrong because they're unnatural or abnormal
The argument makes the naturalistic fallacy, incorrectly assuming something's naturalness dictates its ethical use

Dignity Argument

There isn't a consensus on the moral basis or definition of human dignity
Some argue that human dignity is a fundamental ethical principle, while others show that current foundations of the concept fail

Nazi Arguments in Bioethics

Equates a position or course of action to something the Nazis did or propagated
Often fails to establish a proper analogy, as the comparison is inaccurate

Slippery-Slope Arguments

Claims that doing something desirable will inevitably lead to something terrible
Conceptual slippery-slope arguments claim that governing legislation or a new policy is too imprecise and permits abuse
Causal slippery-slope arguments claim that a policy will trigger a chain of events leading to unacceptable outcomes

Treating Someone as a Means

Argues it is wrong to treat someone solely as a means to an end
This argument stems from Kant's Categorical Imperative
Treat another human being as an end by respecting their autonomy and goals
The argument may condemn practices like savior siblings or commercial use of human bodies

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Description

Explore key arguments in bioethics, including the knock-down arguments, 'Playing God' concept, and the implications of dignity and naturalness in ethical considerations. This quiz addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas in modern technology and human rights discussions.