PHL 282 IWU The General Embryonic Stem Cell and Ethical Relativists Discussion

Let us check out our understanding of relativist ethical theory by seeing how relativists might approach specific ethical controversies: the abortion and the embryonic stem cell research questions.

Resources

• Textbook: An introduction to ethics

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
2. Read chapter 5 (pages 121-147) in Scott Rae’s Moral Choices to fill in some of the gaps in your knowledge.
3. Respond to the following in the discussion forum:
   1. What are the key principles an ethical relativist might apply to either the abortion or the embryonic stem cell research questions (or almost any question)?
   2. What potential answers might a relativist give concerning abortion or embryonic stem cell research? (You might want to note that relativists can reach a variety of positions on any one question.)
   3. How do you evaluate the relativist position as it helps (or does not help) a person reach a conclusion on abortion or embryonic stem cell research?