My worldview of human value plays a significant role in shaping my beliefs about bioethical issues like abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research. I believe that human life is inherently valuable and worthy of respect from conception to natural death. This perspective influences my views on abortion, where I lean towards the belief that the fetus has intrinsic value and deserves protection. This belief is grounded in the idea that every human life, regardless of stage or condition, has potential and dignity.

In the case of designer babies, I am cautious about manipulating genetic material, as it could open the door to creating a “perfect” human that undermines the value of individual differences. The notion of enhancing or choosing certain traits could lead to societal inequality and the commodification of human life, which I view as problematic. Furthermore, the long-term consequences of such genetic manipulation are uncertain, and the ethics of playing with nature in this way should be carefully considered (Glover, 2006).

Stem cell research, on the other hand, is a more complex issue. I support stem cell research with certain ethical boundaries. For example, using stem cells from sources that do not harm human life, such as adult stem cells, holds promise for treating various diseases without the ethical concerns surrounding the destruction of embryos (Harris, 2007). However, embryonic stem cell research raises difficult questions about when life begins and the moral status of the embryo.

In conclusion, my worldview emphasizes the inherent value of human life, guiding my ethical stance on these bioethical issues. As science advances, these conversations must continue, ensuring that human dignity remains at the core of the discussions.

References:

Glover, J. (2006). Choosing Children: Genes, Disability, and Design. Oxford University Press.

Harris, J. (2007). Stem Cell Research: The Ethical Issues. In Ethics and Biotechnology. Routledge.