The features of a "Mediterranean" Bioethics

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Medical Ethics
• Philosophy of Ethics

Background:

• Bioethics traditionally lacks geographic qualifiers, yet distinct regional ethical frameworks exist.
• The Mediterranean region is the historical birthplace of medical ethics, influenced by Greek philosophy and major religions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To differentiate "Mediterranean Bioethics" from "Northern-European and Northern-American" bioethical approaches.
• To highlight the unique contributions of Mediterranean philosophical and religious traditions to ethical thought.
• To advocate for integrating Mediterranean ethical perspectives into contemporary bioethical discourse.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of philosophical and religious texts from the Mediterranean region.
• Comparative study of ethical frameworks, contrasting Aristotelian virtue ethics with Northern-American principialism.
• Exploration of the role of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in shaping life ethics.

Main Results:

• Ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Aristotle's virtue ethics, established foundational ethical principles in the Mediterranean.
• Mediterranean religions significantly influenced ethical thought concerning the respect for life.
• A notable divergence exists between the virtue-based ethics of the Mediterranean and the principialist ethics prevalent in Northern regions.

Conclusions:

• Mediterranean Bioethics, characterized by virtue ethics and religious influences, presents a valuable counterpoint to dominant Northern-American approaches.
• Recognizing and integrating the "Mediterranean lung" of ethical thought is essential for a comprehensive and inclusive bioethical framework in multicultural societies.