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 recognizes 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 book 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. "BCW is a well researched, balanced text on bioethics that targets nearly all of the key issues and provides a firm foundation for our students."- Kem Barfield, Three Rivers Community College "I think this book is one of the best and fairest and most insightful texts on bioethics on the market."- Paul Boling, Bryan College Vincent Barry is Professor of Philosophy Emeritus at Bakersfield College, having taught there for thirty-four years as well as being a highly successful philosophy textbook author.