Multiple factors can impact ethical decision-making, including religious beliefs, which greatly influence many people. This article will explore three challenging scenarios about cloning, sexual orientation, and reproductive technologies while taking into consideration various ethical frameworks such as Emotivism, natural law ethics, and divine command ethics for each situation.
Cloning Dilemma – John Doe:
The decision by John Doe to clone himself poses ethical inquiries regarding reproduction and the relationship between a parent and their child. The emotivism perspective suggests that one’s personal feelings towards cloning dictate whether or not it is acceptable, with some arguing for biological connection. In contrast, others express concern about potential risks associated with cloning. Natural law ethicists oppose such practices as they value upholding natural order in human life. They consider complexities around cloned children and prioritize respect for inherent dignity over any benefits of technology-based reproduction methods. Divine command ethics highlights religious teachings when determining the permissibility of such actions- if there are no specific injunctions against cloning within John Does’ faith, then moral approval may be found; however, without clear guidance, subjective interpretations could arise, leading to unethical choices like disregarding consequences or neglecting well-being dependent on cultural norms (Khan & Konje, 2019).
Sexual Orientation Dilemma – Jane Doe:
Jane Doe faces a problematic situation where her sexual preferences go against the religious beliefs of her parents. According to Emotivism, whether or not she should tell them comes down to how Jane feels about it. If being truthful and trustworthy to herself aligns with what is essential for her values, then revealing this information may be considered ethical. Those following Natural Law Ethics might suggest that people have an innate inclination towards certain behaviors, such as their sexual orientation, which is part of ethical living if acknowledged truthfully. Nonetheless, issues occur when specific orientations are condemned according to religious teachings. For Divine Command Ethics followers, determining moral paths depends on religious doctrines; hence, we must practice accordingly. For example – admitting identity would only seem right for someone who follows accepting faith within themselves. In contrast, others face severe dilemmas contradicting their belief system teaching prohibiting diverse individuals in society from practicing freely without judgmental eyes upon them (Sabia-Tanis, 2018). However, ethics involves conflict primarily between satisfying personal feelings versus going along with spiritual customs or adherence- acknowledging oneself creates more pressure over one either hiding away everything under wraps, eventually hampering emotional well-being and health consequences later disclosed followed by outright disownment will come up injurious resulting disastrous outcomes overall hurting person wellness at extensive due consideration requires prompt actions rather than superficially applying band-aids solving nothing resolving matters permanently before moving ahead finally leading fruitful decisions helping everyone genuinely.
Reproductive Technology Dilemma – Joe and Mary:
Joe and Mary are struggling with conflicting desires as they want another child, but their religious beliefs forbid IVF. Emotivism acknowledges that opinions may differ on whether it is justifiable to deviate from religious teachings when considering the emotional pain of losing a child. Some argue that the couple’s well-being takes priority, while others prioritize adherence to doctrines. Natural law ethics stresses respect for the natural process of conception, making IVF ethically questionable even in an emotionally challenging context due to its deviation from said process. In divine command ethics, Joe and Mary need guidance based on explicit rules outlined by their religion concerning IVF; adhering or breaking these laws governs moral uprightness instead of personal ideologies. However, interpretation becomes pivotal if no clear rulings exist about this topic within their faith tradition (Khan & Konje, 2019). Negative actions like disregarding teaching preferences neglect ethical obligations associated with pursuing desired outcomes through means against one’s spiritual convictions.
In conclusion, when faced with ethical predicaments involving religion, it is crucial to consider personal values and emotions, religious doctrines, and more comprehensive ethical principles. The intricate interplay between Emotivism, natural law ethics, and divine command ethics offers insights into the intricacies of making sound moral judgments that navigate individual beliefs and societal influences.
References
Khan, M. A. Z., & Konje, J. C. (2019). Ethical and religious dilemmas of modern reproductive choices and the Islamic perspective. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 232, 5–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.10.052
Sabia-Tanis, J. (2018). Trans-Gender: Theology, Ministry, and Communities of Faith. In Google Books. Wipf and Stock Publishers. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=pkv7DwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=Ethics+and+Religion+in+sexual+orientation+dilemma&ots=ldytrvvE5R&sig=dZklzMcvSYFRqPVwN6WWyJTuv9w
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