Genetic engineering and the dignity of creatures |
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Authors: | Robert Heeger |
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Institution: | (1) Centre for Bioethics and Health Law, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 2, NL-3584 CS Utrecht |
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Abstract: | The Swiss expert report suggests that the inherent dignity of a living being be identified with its inherent value. But the
phrase “inherent value of a living being” seems to connote two concepts of inherent value. One has a morally obligating character
but is counterintuitive because of its egalitarianism. The other is one of non-moral value. It is more compatible with considered
intuitions but insufficient for substantiating the expert report’s claim that human beings have moral duties towards animals
and plants. The paper discusses these concepts. Consideration is then given to the problem of how discursive support can be
generated for the expert report’s claim that human beings have the moral duty to abstain from impairing those functions and
abilities of a non-human being that members of its species as a rule can practice. |
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Keywords: | genetic engineering inherent value moral obligation Swiss constitution |
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