Your task is to write a paragraph (maximum length of one page double spaced) that analyzes one specific bioethical issue. You choose which bioethical issue to write about; in this Assignment, reflect deeply on a topic that matters to you. If you need help selecting a topic, consult with your instructor.
Complete your position paragraph. You should write about a bioethical issue that strikes you as interesting, important, and relevant. For example, if, when reading the assigned chapter in the text, you recalled a personal situation involving bioethics that you thought was unethical, you might write a position paragraph about how that situation relates to your reading. The point of the Assignment is for you to reflect deeply on one concept and its relevance to your own life. If you find it difficult to select a topic to write about or have any questions about how your paper should be organized, please consult your instructor.
You must apply at least one ethical theory to support your position and explain how a different theory compares when applied to this issue.
It is not enough to name a theory; you must explain the theory and demonstrate how your position reflects the logic and reasoning of that theory. You must also show how your position supported by ethical theory is stronger than another position supported by another theory.
Sample paper
Bioethical Issue
One of the most interesting and relevant bioethical issues in the modern period is the environmental risks of biotechnology in agriculture. Modern biotechnology involves application of such techniques as genetic engineering, which entails manipulation of the DNA of plants and animals in order to develop new and superior species of the same. DNA represents the chemical building units that determine the characteristics of plants and animals. Application of biotechnology has led to introduction of genetically modified organisms in the consumer market, notably corn, tomato, potato, cotton, and other transgenic crops (Bawa & Anilakumar, 2013). Introduction of genetically modified organism poses significant risk to individuals and the environment. Concerns have increased over safety of genetically modified organisms and foods, as well as the risk to the environment. In the latter case, extinction of conventional plants may occur. Application of biotechnology in farming is against the natural law theory. Natural law theory asserts that God designed the universe, and thus human beings should not tamper with the natural order of things. The utilitarian theory of ethics asserts that actions are right if they are beneficial to a majority. Modern biotechnology has the capacity to improve the welfare of majority through improved farming.
Reference
Bawa, A. S., & Anilakumar, K. R. (2013). Genetically modified foods: safety, risks and public concerns—a review. Journal of Food Science and Technology,50(6), 1035–1046.
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