Kantian + Utilitarian Views on Use of Human Embryos LI: I understand how to apply the two moral viewpoints to use of human embryos. Success: I have completed notes on applying Kantian Ethics and Utilitarianism.

Principles applied to the issue of using human embryos. Kantian Ethics Principles applied to the issue of using human embryos.

WRONG RIGHT IVF – wrong because it is using people as a means to an end. Saviour siblings – wrong because it is using people as a means to an end. Research – wrong because it cannot be a made a universal maxim for all embryos otherwise none of us would be here. If human embryos should be used then all uses are permitted. Applying the categorical imperative makes using embryos right all the time. The universal maxim means using human embryos is right for all people and all situations.

Principles applied to the use of human embryos Utilitarianism Principles applied to the use of human embryos

Greater good principle applied could be said to encourage it – majority benefit if society rid of debilitating diseases. Could argue against given the majority of embryos destroyed in the process. Rule – apply certain rules such as HFE Act to regulate and ensure only using embryos were the majority benefit. Act – can apply in individual actions and only take the action that applies the Greater Good principle e.g. using PGD to save the life of an older sibling as opposed to using PGD to create a designer baby which threatens the risk of eugenics.

Essay Questions “ A religious person should never support interference with human embryos.” How far do you agree? (10 AE) Evaluate secular viewpoints on the uses of I.V.F. (10 AE) ‘Although Genetic Selection will improve our health it will inevitably lead to choosing what our children look like!’ Do you agree? (10 AE)

Past Paper Questions 2011 What reasons might their be for selecting a human embryo? 4KU “Embryo selection is morally right in all cases.” Evaluate at least one secular viewpoint on this statement. 10AE