This article first appeared in the Christian Research Journal, volume 26, number 3 (2003). For further information or to subscribe to the Christian Research Journal go to: http://www.equip.org SYNOPSIS Debates over embryonic stem cell research and human cloning have forced us to address the question: What does it mean to be human? If embryos are [...]

Summary The Human Genome Project (HGP) is giving us a bird’s-eye view into our genes, the very blueprints of our bodies. As genetic knowledge increases, questions are being raised regarding the proper scope and limits of both science and medicine. Genetic science is on the verge of not only discovering possible cures for previously incurable [...]

This article first appeared in the Practical Apologetics column of Volume 23 / Number 4 / 2001 issue of the Christian Research Journal. For further information or to subscribe to the Christian Research Journal go to: http://www.equip.org Two years ago in this column I reiterated the truth that the only thing necessary for evil to [...]

This article first appeared in the Volume 21 / Number 4 issue of the Christian Research Journal. For further information or to subscribe to the Christian Research Journal go to: http://www.equip.org SUMMARY The fastest growing population in developed nations is the elderly, those age 65 and older. This growth ensures that issues affecting seniors will [...]

Summary Even scientists were shocked when researchers in Scotland recently disclosed the successful cloning of a mammal. Leaders from around the world were quick to recognize the clear implications for human rights. If a lamb can be cloned, then the door is open to clone humans. But cloning is just one further advance in presently [...]

Summary MIT psychology professor Steven Pinker recently wrote a New York Times Magazine article in which he claimed that legal prohibitions against infanticide were difficult to defend. He reached his provocative conclusion using the methods and assumptions of a currently stylish academic discipline broadly known as “evolutionary psychology.” A close examination of his argument shows [...]

Summary Studies of suicide typically classify martyrdom as suicide. This, coupled with theological and historical ignorance, results in depictions of early Christians as morbidly obsessed with death and prone to take their own lives if unable to provoke pagans to kill them. This position is reflected in a Michigan judge’s recent ruling in the case [...]

In Part One of this series I examined two central aspects of the euthanasia debate. First, several important background concepts in ethical theory were explained. Second, the main features of the libertarian and traditional views of euthanasia were set forth. The libertarian view, advocated by philosopher James Rachels, states that there is no morally relevant [...]

The following is an excerpt from article DE197-1 from the Christian Research Journal. The full article can be viewed by following the link below the excerpt. TWO VIEWS ABOUT THE MORALITY OF EUTHANASIA Views on Euthanasia- The Libertarian View The libertarian view is a minority position among current moral philosophers and theologians, but it nevertheless [...]

The following is an excerpt from article DE197-1 from the Christian Research Journal. The full article can be read by following the link below the excerpt. What Is Euthanasia- The Definition of Euthanasia There are two different uses of the term “euthanasia.” The first is sometimes called the “narrow construal of euthanasia.” On this view [...]