Repository of DUTH

θεολογική προσέγγιση και βιοηθικά διλήμματα (Master thesis)

Αλεξανδρόπουλος - Αραπάκης, Ανδρέας/ Alexandropoulos - Arapakis, Andreas

No one denies the truly awful moment of death. For science, man is a biological being, with a beginning, middle and end. Therefore, according to her, death is the natural end of human nature, since the perishability of the body occurs. Therefore, on its part, it makes every possible scientific effort in order for the death of the person to be dignified, regardless of whether there is a violent separation of the soul from the body, in other words, science commonly follows the path "the end sanctifies" means". For the two monotheistic religions, we find the common doctrinal position, that the death of man is God's will, with a perspective of the resurrection not of the bodies but of the souls in the sleeping bodies. Examining bioethical issues through a theological lens can influence moral reasoning and decision-making. Rooted in the belief in the sanctity of human life as a divine gift, Orthodox teachings provide a comprehensive framework for dealing with complex moral dilemmas. At the same time, the commonalities between Orthodox Christianity and Islam highlight a common commitment to defend the dignity and value of human life, despite theological and legal differences. At the same time, the intersection of religious teachings with advanced medical technologies presents opportunities and challenges for believers. While medical innovations offer new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities, they also raise ethical questions about the limits of human intervention and the potential for harm. Religious teachings emphasize the importance of discerning ethical boundaries and ensuring that medical practices align with ethical principles, which requires ongoing dialogue and reflection within religious communities. The discrepancies between religious traditions and medical practices on some issues highlight the need for respect, understanding and dialogue to address these differences. The teachings of the Church can provide a fundamental approach to bioethical dilemmas, prioritizing the dignity of all individuals, but they require trust in the divine. Understanding the various religious perspectives on the soul, body, life, and death is essential to making decisions that protect health but are also faith-aligned.