The structure of analogical reasoning in bioethics

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Philosophy of Science
• Applied Ethics

Background:

• Casuistry, a method using analogical reasoning, is widely used in bioethics.
• Existing meta-philosophical reflection on bioethical casuistry's methodology and challenges is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel framework for structuring casuistry and analogical reasoning in bioethics.
• To address limitations in current meta-philosophical understanding of bioethical casuistry.

Main Methods:

• Incorporating theories from the philosophy of science, including Mary Hesse's work on analogical reasoning.
• Utilizing Paul Bartha's articulation model and Daniel Steel's insights on mechanism-based extrapolation.
• Developing a structured framework for analogical reasoning in bioethics.

Main Results:

• The framework establishes methodological standards for analogical reasoning in bioethics.
• It enables systematic comparison and evaluation of different analogical reasoning approaches.
• Identifies the integration points of moral principles within analogical reasoning.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework offers practical benefits by setting methodological standards and facilitating systematic evaluation.
• Theoretically, it clarifies the moral normativity of analogical reasoning and its appeal in applied ethics.
• This structured approach enhances the understanding and application of casuistry in bioethics.