Religion and Science: A Case Study Exploring the Perceptions of Clergies on Bioethics

• Main Authors: Ciron, Halle Chloe I., De Mesa, Eunice Alexa C., Galuyo, Denyel Syron A., Velasco, Shane Monique I., E. Villanueva, Benedict E.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2024
• Subjects: bioethics; surrogacy; euthanasia; contraceptives; eugenics
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2024/paper_lcs/2; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/conf_shsrescon/article/2365/viewcontent/PP_LCS_Ciron_De_Mesa_Galuyo_Velasco_Villanueva___Benedict_Villanueva.docx_2.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

The relationship between religion and science has been a topic of debate, particularly within bioethics – the study of moral, legal, and social dilemmas that arise within biomedicine and biomedical science (Resnik, 2021). The limited integration of religious viewpoints into bioethical discourse creates a problem in addressing moral dilemmas. This case study explored the perceptions of four (4) clergies from different religions (i.e., Jehovah's Witness, Christian, Catholic, and Islam) in San Pablo City who have been preaching at their respective religions for more than five years. The researchers conducted in-person, in-depth interviews with the participants who were selected through purposive sampling. The data were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire. The interviews were transcribed and coded. After grouping the categories, emerging themes were identified. The findings revealed three themes: (1) the morality of bioethics is based on sacred texts and circumstances; (2) the practice of bioethics is unacceptable but with a few exceptions from other religions; and (3) the discussion of bioethics happens only through small groups or interviews. The results of the study revealed that clergies' views on the morality of bioethics are shaped through their sacred texts and given context. Furthermore, the approval of bioethics as a practice depends on the given context and bioethics itself. Findings also revealed that bioethics is only discussed when questions are raised or guidance is needed. This study suggests future researchers explore other religions’ perceptions and other examples of bioethics to further understand the perceptions of religion in bioethics.