Published in memory of David Thomasma, one of the leading humanists in the field of bioethics, this collection of essays deals with the pressing issue of how to create universal bioethics in today's world of conflicting cultures and perspectives. In particular, the essays explore topics in bioethics that have a major impact on human rights, including the right to health care. Thomasma was a pioneer, having integrated major theological and philosophical traditions from the west with modern science. The authors, representing many different cultures and disciplines, have written essays that reflect Thomasma's major avenues of inquiry. The book, covering an important issue of our times, has broad appeal among physicians, philosophers, theologians, lawyers, human rights workers, and health professionals.

Adresses the challenge of creating universal bioethics in the faces of valued conflicts and the concentration of world views Looks at the main topics in current Bioethics that have a serious human rights component Explores the human right to health and the various sub rights that are part of ongoing crises relating to claims made in the health system

Inhalt
Health Care, Human Rights and Social Policy.- Evolving Bioethics and International Human Rights.- Dignity, Rights, Health Care, and Human Flourishing.- Human Rights: The Ethics Of Globalization.- Human Rights And The Right To Health Care.- Religion, International Human Rights And Women's Health: Synthesizing Principles And Politics.- The Centrality And Limits Of Autonomy.- The Limitations And Accomplishments Of Autonomy As A Basic Principle In Bioethics And Biolaw.- Person And Human Being In Bioethics And Biolaw.- Welfare Rights And Health Care.- Autonomy And The Rights Of Minors.- Domestic Violence.- Balancing Autonomy And Traditional Values In Treating Terminally Ill Patients: Towards Locating The Right Questions For Japan.- Pluralism, Race And Health.- Culture, Community Or Rights.- Bioethics Between Nature And Culture.- Medical Practice As The Primary Context For Medical Ethics.- Euthanasia And Multiculturalism.- Future Legal Ordering And Social Planning.- International Law And Genetic Counselling.- International Perspective On Organ Donation.- Justice In The Distribution Of Transplant Organs.- Human Cloning And Human Dignity.- Accessing Health Care Resources: Economic, Medical, Ethical And Socio-Legal Challenges.- Mental Health Rights: The Relation Between Constitution And Bioethics.- Individual Integrity, Research Ethics And Human Rights.- The Vulnerability Quagmire In International Research.- Human Rights, Health Care And Biomedical Innovation: Confronting The Research Imperative.- The Rights To Die And The Duty To Save: A Reflection On Ethical Presuppositions In Suicide Research.- The Right To Bodily Security Vis-À-Vis The Needs Of Others.