Religion and Bioethics

The conference seeks to explore the complex and evolving intersection between religious beliefs, ethical principles, and bioethical concerns that have grown prominent in contemporary social discourse.

The burgeoning field of bioethics, which seeks to navigate complex and often controversial issues in medical practice, biotechnology, and public health, finds itself in constant dialogue with questions of moral and ethical responsibility. Religion, as a fundamental aspect of human life and culture, contributes richly to this discourse, offering frameworks that shape individuals’ ethical orientations and responses to bioethical dilemmas.

Historically, religious traditions have deeply influenced moral philosophy and ethical decision-making. From the Hippocratic Oath to modern-day debates on genetic engineering, assisted reproduction, and end-of-life care, religious thought provides vital insights and moral considerations.

Various religions have taken stances on the inherent dignity of human life, the moral limits of medical intervention, and the sanctity of the human body. These stances continue to significantly impact legislation, medical practice, and public opinion on bioethical matters.

As the Journal for Cultural and Religious Theory works toward a special issue on Religion and Bioethics, we aim to create an interdisciplinary forum to examine these pressing issues. This special issue seeks to facilitate a richer understanding by bringing together scholarly contributions that investigate how religious beliefs and ethical principles interact within the realm of bioethics. We encourage contributions from a spectrum of perspectives, approaches, and methodologies.

Themes and Topics

We encourage submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following issues:

• Genetic Engineering and CRISPR Technology: Ethical implications of genome editing from various religious perspectives. Considerations include the manipulation of human embryos, potential consequences of genetic “enhancement,” and the moral duties toward future generations.

• End-of-Life Decisions: Religious and ethical analysis of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. Discussions may involve doctrinal stances, cultural practices, and the protection of vulnerable populations.

• Reproductive Rights and Technologies: The moral and religious dimensions of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy. Topics can include the status of embryos, parental responsibility, and the implications on family structures.

• Healthcare Inequality: Examination of religious teachings on justice and equity in the distribution of healthcare resources. Analyses of how religious groups respond to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

• Pandemic Ethics: The intersection of religious doctrine and policy-making during global health crises, such as COVID-19. Ethical issues involving vaccine distribution, quarantine measures, and the impact on religious communities.

• Transgender Health: Ethical and religious perspectives on transgender medical interventions, including hormone treatment and gender-affirming surgeries. Considerations of bodily autonomy, identity integrity, and religious freedom.

• Neuroethics: Religious insights into brain-computer interfaces, cognitive enhancement, and the implications of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Discussions on the nature of human identity, consciousness, and moral agency.

• Human Enhancement Technologies**: Theological and ethical perspectives on cybernetics, including prosthetic enhancements, bionics, and brain-machine interfaces. Examination of notions like the human body’s sanctity and integrated wholeness from various religious traditions.