| Abstract |
The purpose of this paper is to study the ethical considerations arising from the
applicability of HLA Typing. The method refers to the creation of a child, the
“saviour sibling” through Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis having compatible tissue
with a diseased sibling in order to save its life. The paper aims to highlight the most
important points and arguments framing the issue in order to form the evaluation
criteria of the method contributing to legislation.
In the first section of the work describing the biomedical framework concerning
the new method, the purpose is to investigate the causes and conditions leading to the
selection of this method and to evaluate the necessity of its application. In particular,
indicatory empirical data is registered in order to illustrate the safety and effectiveness
of the method, to found the criteria and requirements for the application and to
highlight the alternative option.
The second section presents the main arguments for and against the method as
they emerge in the international bibliography, as well as the principles that frame
them. The arguments focus on the welfare of the ‘saviour sibling’ (mental and
physical), its instumentalization , and the possibility of the technique’s
implementation to consist the basis for the implementation of further cont roversial
practices(slippery slope argument).
The opinions expressed in the bibliography provide the reason for addressing the
issue and assessing the technique according to Kantian ethics. The frequent reference
to the famous dictum of Kant which is based on misreading and misunderstanding of
its categorical imperative constitutes the essential core of the debate-dialogue on the
creation of ‘savior sibling’. Therefore, the analysis and interpretation of The above
phrase seemed appropriate, in order to highlight its real content and meaning, which
seems to differ from its signification in the context of the debate on the 'savior
sibling'. The interpretation of the categorical imperative which refers to humanity and
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the analysis of Kant’s duties system may contribute to the formation of the
technique’s evaluation criteria. This analysis helps us perceive what actions are those
that make the creation of a compatible child act incompatible with human nature and
what actions may reinforce it.
Finally, it was considered inevitable to investigate the legalization of the method
in Greece (although this has not been explicitly regulated by law). After a brief
reference on how the method was addressed in the UK, it is examined if the
application of the technique is in accordance with Greek legislation and whether it is
consistent with the principles and spirit of the relevant laws. In conclusion, the
legislative regulation and the application of alternative models of thought and action
to treat health problems is proposed.
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"Αδελφός Σωτήρας" ηθική και νομική προσέγγιση
