Expert: Justin Choo - 5/18/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello Justin,

I have been research on Buddhism's aspects on bioethics and xenoptransplantation. I know that Buddhists treat all living creatures kindly and with respects. Can I please know some more specific point of views on xenotransplantation from you as a Buddhist?

Thank you!


ANSWER: Hi Ivy,

This is the first time that I come across such terms.  So I searched Wikipedia :
"Bioethics is the philosophical study of the ethical controversies brought about by advances in biology and medicine. Bioethicists are concerned with the ethical questions that arise in the relationships among life sciences, biotechnology, medicine, politics, law, philosophy, and theology."

"Xenotransplantation (xeno- from the Greek meaning "foreign") is the transplantation of living cells, tissues or organs from one species to another such as from pigs to humans (see Medical grafting). Such cells, tissues or organs are called xenografts or xenotransplants."

Buddhism is about how to live in peace with nature and with oneself.  It is about how one can develop one's mind to experience inner peace.  Having said that, Buddhism has no problem dealing with scientific research and discoveries.  Any attempt to advance human civilization is a "healthy" approach provided that it does not harm others.  Sometimes it is inevitable that others may suffer for the "greater good" of the whole society.  It is the nature of this world that all things are not perfect.  The "law of the jungle"  and "survival of the fittest" still reign supreme.  Some may die for others to live.  This is the unsatisfactoriness of existence.

However, there is this ever present danger that humans may misuse scientific advancement to hurt others.  Being very clever but without moral wisdom, is very dangerous for human civilization.

This would be my opinion as a Buddhist.

Take care.

Justin Choo

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hey Justin,

Thanks for answering my question in such short time. I have another question want to know:

1. Do Buddhism accept xenotransplatation; a pig heart transplant into a human body as you know the whole world is in a shortage of organ donation?

2. If it is unacceptable or it's up to personal's decision. Why does Buddhism think it is unmoral/ wrong?

Thank you again, and best wishes.

Answer
Hi Ivy,

Actually I have answered your question if you read carefully.

<<1. Do Buddhism accept xenotransplatation; a pig heart transplant into a human body as you know the whole world is in a shortage of organ donation?>>
No problem with Buddhism.

<<2. If it is unacceptable or it's up to personal's decision. Why does Buddhism think it is unmoral/ wrong?>>

Buddhism gives freedom of choice.  If the person is not agreeable, then it's up to that person.

Take care.

Justin Choo

[I like to invite you to visit my blog:]
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/

[And these sites by Rev. Dhammika:]
http://sdhammika.blogspot.com/
http://www.buddhismatoz.com/