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Fission and confusion.

David Hershenov1, Rose J Koch-Hershenov

  • 1State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.

Christian Bioethics
|December 13, 2006
PubMed
Summary
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Catholic opponents of abortion and embryonic stem cell research argue for ensoulment at fertilization. This paper defends the hylomorphic view, suggesting that denying we are essentially organisms resolves issues with twinning and fusion.

Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Biology
  • Bioethics
  • Metaphysics

Background:

  • Catholic opposition to abortion and embryonic stem cell research often relies on a hylomorphic theory of ensoulment at fertilization.
  • This theory posits that individual human life, with a soul, begins at the single-cell zygote stage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the coherence of the hylomorphic account of ensoulment at fertilization.
  • To address criticisms regarding fission (twinning) and fusion in early development.
  • To propose a modification to the hylomorphic account to maintain its viability.

Main Methods:

  • Philosophical analysis of the hylomorphic theory.
  • Conceptual examination of biological processes like twinning and fusion.
  • Argumentation addressing objections to early ensoulment.
Keywords:
Genetics and ReproductionPhilosophical ApproachReligious Approach

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Main Results:

  • Objections based on fission and fusion do not invalidate the hylomorphic account of ensoulment at fertilization.
  • The coherence of the hylomorphic account can be preserved.
  • A defense of ensoulment at fertilization requires denying that human beings are essentially organisms.

Conclusions:

  • The hylomorphic account of ensoulment at fertilization remains a coherent philosophical position.
  • Addressing biological complexities like twinning and fusion is possible within this framework.
  • Revising the concept of human essence away from being strictly an 'organism' is key to defending ensoulment at fertilization.