Why Vanilla? (Part 2: An Addendum)

In the first blog post I outlined some criticisms of the field of bioethics, as well as certain positions of popular bioethicists. However, it would be foolhardy to hold the view that there are zero fine institutions, philosophers, or thinkers that are dedicated to applying traditional principles of ethics to medicine and biological research. Below are my top 5 favorite resources for topics of bioethics (or ethics in general).  

1. 1. David Oderberg. Highlighted in the first blog post, Prof. Oderberg is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Reading and his interests include metaphysics and moral philosophy. In the field of bioethics he has written on Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research, ordinary duties and extraordinary means, and the metaphysical status of the embryo. He has also co-edited a book, “Human Lives: Critical Essays on Consequentialist Bioethics” which can be found here.  
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2. 2. BioEdge is an independent newsletter edited by Michael Cook that reports on the most up-to-date bioethical issues. All while promoting human dignity, ethical principles, and evidence-based medicine. 

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4. 3. The National Catholic Bioethics Center is a great resource for: consultation when in an ethical dilemma, Church Documents on bioethics, or finding statements on current events in the field of bioethics from a great staff of ethicists. Do not worry, one does not have to be baptized into the Catholic Church to receive their free consultation service! Their journal The National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly addresses “ethical, philosophical, and theological questions raised by the rapid pace of modern medical and technological progress." They also have a monthly publication of essays, Ethics & Medics. 

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5. 4. Sadly, sometimes reading is not possible. For those times, the Thomistic Institute has a large Soundcloud library of recorded lectures from Thomists on topics such as Faith & Science, Politics, Man & The Meaning of Life, and Metaphysics.  

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6. 5. Last, but certainly not least, is Professor Edward Feser who teaches philosophy at Pasadena City College. In addition to teaching, Prof. Feser maintains a wonderfully entertaining blog and has authored several books on St. Thomas Aquinas, the philosophy of mind, Scholastic metaphysics, and atheism. Prof. Feser’s book chapter on sexual perversion is one of my personal favorites. 

Certainly, this is not a comprehensive list, but it’s a great start on the road to vanilla. Comment below on your favorite (living) resources for studying ethics or to tell me where I have gone wrong.