Book excerpt: BIOETHICS IN A CULTURAL CONTEXT--PHILOSOPHY, RELIGION, HISTORY, POLITICS presents a unique, philosophical approach to modern bioethics. Rather than simply setting up debates about contemporary issues, this book helps students understand that many of today's bioethical controversies are tied to profound underlying questions fundamental as: When does life begin and end? What is a human being or person? What is life's purpose? What is the ideal society? The text is comprehensive and accessible, featuring a wide range of content that is crisply presented and clearly explained. A multitude of interesting examples and cases provides ample opportunity for discussion, debate, and research. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.