[1.0] Introduction to Bioethics

Ethics

The branch of philosophy that studies and draws conclusions about the degree of goodness and badness of human actions and conduct about the purposes of human living.

Human act

It is an action of a human being that has passed through his intellect and is intended by his will. It is the action of a rational being, like studying or praying.

Act of man

It is an act that is spontaneous, unintended, and does not go through the will. For example, eating even if we are no longer hungry.

Christian Ethics

The branch of theology that studies the guidelines man must follow to attain his final goal (salvation) in the light of human reason and of Christian Faith.

Religious Ethics

Another term for Christian ethics, which adopts religious teaching in making a judgment.

Salvation

The final goal of man. Heaven for Christians and Catholics. Or Nirvana for Buddhists.

Bioethics

The systematic study of human conduct in life sciences and health care insofar as that conduct is examined from the viewpoint of moral values and principles. It is part of ethics, but it is more particular and only concerns life sciences and health care. 

Medical Ethics

The branch of ethics that is primarily geared to the morally legitimate practice of the medical profession.