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Quartal 1999
On Anthropological and Ethical
Questions of Xenotransplantation Philosophical questions concerning Xenotransplantation include the anthropological question of a possible transgression of natural limits and the question of the ethical principle upon which Xenotransplantation is ultimately founded. The condition for answering the first question is to understand the notions of `nature´ and `naturalness´, whereas the condition for answering the second question is an understanding of human dignity and autonomy as principles rather than as ascriptive terms. Given this, it becomes clear that Xenotransplantation is a transgression within, but not beyond nature, and that not the lack of organs is the ultimate principle to legitimize Xenotransplantation, but the principles of respect for human autonomy and the protection of life ultimately justify Xenotransplantation, provided however that there is no grave risk involved for others.
Key words: Nature and naturalness, human dignity, autonomy and self-determination, individual and collective risk
Prof. Dr. J. P. Beckmann
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