Definition:
Bioethics is an interdisciplinary field that addresses ethical, legal, and social implications of biological and medical research and practice. It explores the moral dilemmas arising from advances in biology, medicine, and biotechnology, focusing on issues such as medical decision-making, research ethics, and the rights of patients and research subjects.
Etymology & Origin:
The term “bioethics” was first coined in the 20th century, combining the prefix “bio-” from Greek “bios,” meaning “life,” with “ethics,” from the Greek “ethos,” meaning “habit” or “custom.” It reflects the merging of biological sciences with ethical questions, becoming prominent as medical technologies and capabilities advanced.
Examples:
- Debates over the ethics of genetic engineering and cloning.
- The right to privacy and consent in medical research.
- Ethical considerations in end-of-life care and decisions.
