Genetics and Christian Ethics [Paperback]

Celia Deane-Drummond examines ethical issues in genetics from a Christian virtue ethics perspective.In the immediate future we are likely to witness significant developments in human genetic science. It is therefore of critical importance that Christian ethics engages with the genetics debate, since it affects not just the way we perceive ourselves, but also has wider implications for our society. Celia Deane-Drummond considers the ethical issues arising out of specific practices in human genetics, including genetic screening, gene therapy and genetic counselling alongside a feminist critique, and argues for a virtue ethics approach to such issues that emphasises wisdom, prudence and justice.In the immediate future we are likely to witness significant developments in human genetic science. It is therefore of critical importance that Christian ethics engages with the genetics debate, since it affects not just the way we perceive ourselves, but also has wider implications for our society. Celia Deane-Drummond considers the ethical issues arising out of specific practices in human genetics, including genetic screening, gene therapy and genetic counselling alongside a feminist critique, and argues for a virtue ethics approach to such issues that emphasises wisdom, prudence and justice.This volume applies the principles of Christian ethics in examining recent significant developments in the science of genetics. Derived from a modified version of virtue ethics, the book draws particularly on a classical understanding of the virtues, especially prudence or practical wisdom and justice. It considers ethical issues arising out of specific practices in human genetics, including genetic screening, gene patenting, gene therapy and genetic counselling as well as feminist concerns. The book demonstrates that a theological voice is highly relevant to contested ethical debates about genetics.Introduction; 1. A recovery of virtue for the ethics of genetics; 2. Theological principlesl³µ