The Sanctity of Life and Animal Testing

The Sanctity of Life

• Sanctity of life is the idea that life is sacred and should be protected and respected.
• Buddhists emphasize compassion, non-violence, and respect for all living beings. The first precept states "Do Not Kill or Harm Living Beings".
• Muslims believe life is a divine gift and must be protected and respected, promoting peace, justice, and life preservation.
• Christians believe human life is sacred as it is created by God and reflects God's image. They promote love, justice, and care for all.

Animal Testing and its Religious Views

• Animals are used for medical, cosmetic, and scientific research; to help develop treatments, vaccines, and ensure product safety. They are also used to understand diseases before human testing.
• Theology is the study of God, religious beliefs, and spiritual truths; it explores divine nature, morality, and human purpose.
• Animal testing supporters believe it is necessary for medical advancements and ensuring human safety.
• Opponents argue that alternatives like computer models and lab-grown cells are available.
• Animal testing is seen as a trend to reduce and replace animal testing overall.
• Buddhism opposes harming animals (Ahimsa) and encourages alternative testing methods.

Euthanasia and its Religious Views

• Euthanasia is intentionally ending a person's life to relieve suffering, often used for patients with terminal illnesses or extreme pain.
• It's categorized as voluntary (with patient consent) or non-voluntary (without consent).
• Ethical concerns center on the value of human life; is it an act of compassion or a violation of ethics? There is concern about possible coercion or pressure on vulnerable populations.
• Arguments for euthanasia include allowing terminally ill patients to die with dignity, providing relief from extreme pain, and respecting personal autonomy.
• Arguments against euthanasia include undermining the sanctity of life, the potential slippery slope towards involuntary euthanasia, and that advances in palliative care are potential alternatives.
• Religious perspectives on euthanasia vary. Christianity generally opposes euthanasia, considering life sacred and a gift from God. Islam similarly disapproves of interfering with God's will.

Abortion

• The notes do not contain an overview about abortion, only a brief mention that it exists and there are secular and religious views.

Medical Ethics

• Medical ethics guides decisions on patient care, medical research, and professional conduct based on moral principles.
• IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): is a medical procedure to assist with pregnancy.
• Organ Donation: is the process of donating organs or tissues to aid in saving lives.
• Four main pillars of medical ethics are autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice.
• Varying religious perspectives exist regarding IVF and organ donation. Islam generally supports IVF and organ donation but with conditions. Christianity generally supports organ donation and sees it as charitable but has varying perspectives regarding IVF.