Bioethics, theology, and social change

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Theology
• Social Justice

Background:

• Concerns exist regarding the exclusion of "thick" religious traditions from secular bioethical debates.
• Secular discourse is perceived as increasingly "thin," lacking depth and comprehensive ethical frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To dispute the notion of religious exclusion in bioethics.
• To highlight the "thick" contributions of religious traditions to contemporary ethical discussions.
• To assert the social effectiveness and relevance of theological voices in bioethics.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of religious and secular ethical frameworks.
• Examination of the role of religion in social justice advocacy.
• Case studies of religious activism in healthcare and biotechnology.

Main Results:

• Religious and theological voices actively compete with secular traditions like science and market capitalism.
• Religion's distinct contribution lies in advocating for social justice in healthcare access.
• Theological perspectives challenge the profit-driven marketing of research and biotechnology.

Conclusions:

• Religion and theology remain potent forces for social and political change.
• Religious traditions effectively sponsor activism at local and global levels.
• Concepts like subsidiarity, "middle axioms," and participatory democracy illustrate religion's impact.