Natality. A theological approach to an anthropological basic concept in the context of bioethics

Abstract

In the controversy about the introduction of new biotechnological and medical technologies, their judicial regulation and political control, not only so-called moral values are discussed but ultimately also religious credos. By the example of natality it will be shown what theology can contribute to the clarification of basic categories of anthropology, which are crucial for medical ethics. The term “natality” (“Geburtlichkeit”) derives from the philosopher Hannah Arendt. In terms of the human finiteness, attention is usually turned to the mortality of the human being. Yet what does it mean for human existence that we are born? What role does this factor play with regard to concrete problems in medical ethics, and which perspectives can theology contribute in terms of their solution?