Introduction To Jewish And Catholic Bioethics: A Comparative Analysis( Series - Moral Traditions )

The title says it all: this is an introduction to how two religious traditions approach bioethics, emphasizing their common ground and their differences on a wide variety of issues. Mackler begins with a discussion of the central values of Judaism and Catholicism, noting how these two draw on scripture and tradition and historical teachings to inform their understandings of morality and ethics. While both traditions are monotheistic they are not monolithic; Mackler spells out how Orthodox, Conservative, and Reformed Jewish approaches differ, and how the Catholic magisterium is sometimes challenged by Catholic bioethicists (such as G'town authors Richard McCormick and Charles Curran). After clarifying these positions Mackler turns to five critical concerns in bioethics, and discusses how Jewish and Catholic traditions respond: euthanasia and assisted suicide; treatment decisions near the end of life; abortion; in vitro fertilization; and access to health care and rationing. Ideal for student use at the undergrad, seminary, and graduate level, and also of interest to clergy in both traditions.