Bioethical Foundations: Human Embryo and Research Principles

Bioethical Principles and Frameworks

It is universally accepted that ethical questions are necessary in relation to the life sciences. The differences arise in defining the limit of what is unethical. Various models provide different limits.

Anthropological Aspects of the Human Embryo

1. The body of the embryo from its earliest stages is not a single cell but a human person.
2. The body of the embryo develops gradually according to a well-defined process with an end in itself: the birth of a child.
3. The embryo is a human being. It has a spiritual soul. It is a Person and therefore possesses the dignity of a person.

The human being is always the same; there is no change of nature at any time. It always possesses the nature of a person.

Ethical Considerations for the Human Embryo

1. The human embryo from the moment of its existence requires unconditional respect that is morally due to the whole human body and spirit.
2. It must be treated as a person from the instant of conception.
3. It is the holder of the rights of the person, principally the right to life.
4. This fundamental ethical criterion should be the basis of any legal system.

Theological Aspects of the Human Embryo

1. Human nature has been elevated by being assumed by Christ. The Incarnation confirms the dignity of the human body and soul.
2. The human being is called to participate in life, called to be God's son, raising their dignity and shedding new light on events that give existence.
3. Every human being, including the embryo, is called by God to eternal life, called to share His love, and possesses an inviolable dignity.
4. At each stage of human existence, created in God's image, His reflection is seen on the face of Christ.

Ethical Biomedical Research

1. Scientists in biomedicine are invited to perform research with ethics and social responsibility.
2. The ethical value of biomedicine is measured by two fundamental ethical criteria:
   1. Unconditional respect for every human being at every moment of their existence.
   2. Safeguarding specific acts that transmit personal life.

Principle of Lesser Evil

In cases of conflict between two evils, always choose the lesser physical evil.

Principle of Double Effect

1. It occurs when a good action, directly intended, has unintended bad effects that are not directly caused. In this case, the action is morally valid as the bad effects are not directly intended or caused.
2. Conditions for application:
   1. The desired action must be good.
   2. The desired effect must be directly good.
   3. The good effect must be proportionate to the evil effect.