Pope: not everything that is technically possible is ethically acceptable
Science, “like all other human activities, is conscious that certain limits must be respected for the good of humanity itself, and that a sense of ethical responsibility is needed”. " If we wish to prepare for the future and to ensure the well-being of each human person, we must grow in sensitivity as the means at our disposal become all the more potent".
Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "Not everything technically possible or doable is thereby ethically acceptable”. Science, like any other human activity, “is conscious that certain limits must be respected for the good of humanity itself, and that a sense of ethical responsibility is needed”. Pope Francis reiterated this today during a meeting with the participants in the IV International Conference on Regenerative Medicine promoted by the Pontifical Council for Culture, in collaboration with the Cura Foundation, STOQ and Stem for Life Foundation, which takes place in the Vatican from April 26 to 28 on the theme: "Unite To Cure A Global Health Care Initiative".
In his speech, the Pope recalled the limit of the ethically acceptable in a context in which "the Church commends every effort of research and application aimed at the care of suffering persons". " The true measure of progress, as Blessed Paul VI recalled, is that it is directed to the good of every man and the whole man (cf. Lett. Enc. Populorum progressio, 14)".
Speaking of the conference's theme, Francis said that " We are increasingly aware that many evils can be avoided if greater attention is paid to the style of life we adopt and the culture we promote. Prevention involves taking a farsighted look at human beings and the environment in which we live. It means aiming for a culture of balance, whose essential factors – education, physical activity, diet, the protection of the environment, respect for the “health codes” practiced by the various religions, timely and precise diagnosis, and so many others – can help us to live better, with fewer health risks. This is all the more important when we think of children and of young people, who are increasingly at risk because of illnesses linked to the radical changes of modern culture. We need but reflect on the impact on health caused by smoking, alcohol consumption, and toxins released in the air, in the water and in the soil (cf. Laudato Si’, 20). A number of tumors and other health problems in adults could be avoided by adopting preventive measures during childhood. Yet this would require constant global action; this cannot be delegated to social and governmental institutions, but demands commitment on the part of all. It is urgent to foster everywhere a culture of prevention as the first step in health care".
" If we wish to prepare for the future and to ensure the well-being of each human person, we must grow in sensitivity as the means at our disposal become all the more potent. This is our responsibility to one another and to all living creatures. For human health needs to be considered in a broader context, not only in relation to scientific research but also to our ability to preserve and protect the natural environment. There is also a need to take into consideration every member of our human family, especially those experiencing social and cultural hardships that endanger both their health and their access to adequate care."
"Thinking of the future thus means setting out on a twofold path. The first, anchored in an open interdisciplinary approach that engages multiple experts and institutions, can lead to a reciprocal exchange of knowledge. The second is made up of concrete actions on behalf of those who suffer. Both these directions call for a convergence of efforts and ideas that engage various communities: scientists and physicians, patients, families, ethicists, cultural and religious leaders, philanthropists, and representatives of governments and business. I am particularly happy that this process is already underway, and that this Conference has, in a symbolic way, brought many of you together for the benefit of all".
.png)
