Ethics

Debate on assisted dying

A public debate on the ethical, moral and spiritual questions raised by 'end of life' issues took place in central London on Thursday 11 October. Lord Falconer put the case for a change in the law to give assisted dying a legal framework, while Professor Nigel Biggar, Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology at the University of Oxford, argued for the law to remain unchanged. More here

In the psychiatrist’s care

He holds powers of detention. He battles for people who cannot help themselves. He fights stigma and misunderstanding. Dr Rob Waller, Consultant Psychiatrist at St John’s Hospital, Livingston, talks to Nigel Bovey about mental illness and emotional well-being. More here

Integrity and the markets

As a student he was a Marxist. Today, in true poacher-turned-gamekeeper fashion, Ken Costa is chairman of one of London's most prestigious investment banks, Lazard International. In his role he studies the markets and advises government ministers and company directors around the world. He is also a Christian. More here

Advances in medicine and the quest for wisdom

Advances in biotechnology and molecular biology are revolutionising what is possible in the world of medicine. Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon, looks at the ethical and philosophical questions this raises. More here

Abortion: Christian perspectives

Geoff Marshall-Taylor, formerly Executive Producer, BBC Education, looks at Christian attitudes to abortion. Christians, like the members of the other main world religions, have important beliefs about life and these ideas influence their views on abortion. However, Christians disagree about whether abortion should ever be allowed and, if it is, about the circumstances in which it can be allowed. More here