Jewish ethics and xenotransplantation

Abstract

Background Although exclusively secular approaches to xenotransplantation are methodologically necessary to establish a fundamental verdict on its theoretical ethical acceptability, it is nevertheless pragmatically appropriate to take into account specifically religious positions, as religion is a factor relevant to societal acceptability. Apart from the aspect of societal acceptability, Jewish bioethics, like other religiously embedded ethics, may enrich the broader ethical discourse on xenotransplantation, as some of its principles—pikuach nefesh being the most prominent one—are plausible even in the framework of secular ethics. Methods This paper first explores concepts of normativity in Jewish ethics before identifying specific ethical issues in Jewish bioethics and possible resolutions offered within the framework of Jewish ethics, and then finally examine the implications for the broader debate on xenotransplantation. Results Religions in general and Judaism in specific cannot and should not be systematically excluded from ethical debates, not only because they may provide helpful input, but also because religion, religiousness and the affiliation to a religion can be crucial factors regarding the societal acceptability of specific medical technologies and procedures as they may be important aspects of an individual's identity. The principles of Jewish bioethics may be compelling to those who do not necessarily share the specifically religious prerequisites on which Jewish ethics is established. Among these rather cogent concepts is the status of natural law and naturalness, which is far more open to medical technologies and procedures deemed as unnatural and thus morally wrong by other religious parties in public discourse. Conclusions Jewish ethics has strong tendencies toward supporting xenotransplantation given a certain criteria is met. No categorical bans on xenotransplantation can be established on the grounds of Halacha.

The role of religious beliefs for the acceptance of xenotransplantation. Exploring dimensions of xenotransplantation in the field of hospital chaplaincy

“…In the three major monotheistic religions, it is part of their established practice to take care of the sick . In the 20th century, special pastoral care has been developed in hospitals in German‐speaking countries.…”

Jewish, Christian and Muslim theological perspectives about xenotransplantation

“…[3][4][5][6][7] Public opinion surveys have found that, in general, the perception of and willingness to consider XTx are favourable [8][9][10][11][12] , although the influence of religious beliefs was less straightforward. 8,[10][11][12] While theological discussions have suggested no specific prohibition from Abrahamic theological traditions (ie Jewish, Christian, and Muslim), [3][4][5][6][7] a review of public opinion survey responses related to the role of religious beliefs in the decision to consider a XTx was more complex. 8,[10][11][12] One recent study suggested that it was the amount of detailed information and procedure results that would have the greatest influence on religious acceptance of the procedure.…”

“…The theological‐ethical perspectives and the complex issues that XTx raises for society and the potential recipient have been widely reported . Public opinion surveys have found that, in general, the perception of and willingness to consider XTx are favourable, although the influence of religious beliefs was less straightforward .…”

Xenotransplantation

“…As initial clinical trials draw closer, ethics [79], acceptance of xenotransplantation by hospital personnel [80], and by the general population with different cultural and religious backgrounds [81–83], are topics of importance. Schuurman has recently comprehensively reviewed regulatory aspects of xenotransplantation in Europe and in the United States in his seminal papers [84–85].…”