Eighth Asian Bioethics Conference (abc2007) Second Unesco Bangkok Bioethics Roundtable (bbrt2)

Distinguished dignitaries on the stage, honored experts in bioethics and techno sciences, ladies and gentlemen. I am happy to be present in this unique ABA conference. I would like to bring to your knowledge and concern some selected bioethical issues that are currently discussed in India. I perceive that these issues are also faced by all nations. Since all nations are concerned about the next generation I think that discussing these issues is very important. Human beings are unique in this biosphere because humans are not only related to the past but also to the future generations. " Man (Humans) is Man because he shares a common culture… not only (with) its living members but also members of past generations and those yet unborn… " (Worsley, 1970). The problems of the present century and our generation are radically different from the previous century. It is going to be far, far different from the present! Are we the conscience keepers of the generation to come? At the outset we need to consider the three realms (i) Ecology (ii) Economic and (iii) Ecuminics – anthropocentric development. All three spheres sprout from the same common Greek work " oikos " which means house or a dwelling place. The word 'nomics' stands for 'management'. We need to manage the principles of ecology and infuse it with the management of the commercial world with an aim to achieve a balanced, healthy and just society. In this current era of neo-liberal globalization we are witnessing a proliferation of different types of ethical, legal and social Issues. The next generation is in increasing danger of facing extinction. Therefore, we need to consider the challenges confronting us. In identifying these global problems for global solution, let us consider the remedy in a reflective mood. Let me list some of the problem areas. The Nathari Killings Loss of sacredness of human life Nithari is a small village in the District of Noida in Uttar Pradesh, India. Reported to the police but unattended is the incidence of shocking and brutal and traumatic incidence of disappearance of young women and children (Jan-Feb 2007). The whole episode came into public light when human skeletal remains were unearthed in a near by gutter, close to the suspected murder(s). The motive of gruesome killing is not very well established. Killing for the organ trade has not been ruled out. In any case, these incidences …