Bioethics, Environmental (See Environmental Ethics)

Abstract

In Potter’s distinction between medical and environmental (or ecological) bioethics the last form of bioethics is concerned with the survival of humanity. It concentrates on responsibilities toward future generations and takes a long-term view associated with the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems. The scope of ethics in Potter’s view should be expanded beyond the ethics of individuals. He developed the environmental dimensions of bioethics in which the risk for extinction of humanity was his main concern. Preservation of the biosphere and a healthy environment were necessary to guarantee human survival and future disasters could be avoided only if ethical perspectives changed. Deficient water supplies, toxic waste, pollution, acid rain, and global warming seriously affect human health.