Case Studies in Society, Religion, and Bioethics

This book explores, through case studies, the interplay between religion, culture, government, and politics in diverse societies on questions arising in the domain of bioethics. The case studies draw from multiple disciplinary perspectives, including history, theology, law, bioethics, public policy, science, and medicine. The text's global perspective permits a comparison of the differing approaches adopted by countries facing similar bioethical quandaries and the extent to which religion has or has not been instrumental in addressing such dilemmas.

Secular and religious societies across the globe are being confronted with complex questions involving religious belief and the extent to which specific religious perspectives have in the past or should in the future be adopted as official policy. Bioethical issues involving the interplay of religion and government have become particularly notable in recent years. How these issues are resolved has major implications for individuals, healthcare providers, and the future of medical research and medical care.

Topics explored among the chapters include:

• Homosexuality: Sin, Crime, Pathology, Identity, Behavior
• Medical Error: Truthtelling, Apology, and Forgiveness
• Refusal of Medical Treatment
• Medical Deportation
• Case Study: Nazism, Religion, and Human Experimentation
• The New Frontier: Cloning

Case Studies in Society, Religion, and Bioethics will find an engaged audience among researchers and scholars in history, religion/theology, medicine, and bioethics interested in the influence of religion on bioethical decision-making. Students-particularly upper-level undergraduate and graduate students interested in bioethics, humanities, and theology-will find the text helpful in understanding the processes through which religion may serve as a basis for both societal policy and law and individual decision-making in health-related matters.

Sana Loue, JD, PhD, MPH, MSSA, is a professor in the Department of Bioethics of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.  She holds secondary appointments in Psychiatry, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and Global Health. Dr. Loue served as the Vice Dean for Faculty Development and Diversity for almost eight years. Dr. Loue holds degrees in epidemiology (PhD), medical anthropology (PhD), social work (MSSA), secondary education (MA), public health (MPH), and theology (MA). Dr. Loue previously practiced law for 13 years. She holds an active license as an independent social worker-supervisor (Ohio) and has been ordained as a modern rabbi (Rabbinical Seminary International) and interfaith minister (The New Seminary). She has conducted research domestically and internationally, focusing on HIV risk and prevention, severe mental illness, family violence, and research ethics. She has authored or edited more than 30 books and more than 100 peer-reviewed journal articles.