vyo476
"I don't believe either way in a "higher power" but I think the Bible has a few good points and that Jesus was a pretty stand-up guy. Question: Do I count as at least partially following a "higher source" even if I don't follow every last word? Your answer to this question will be quite illuminating."
The source of your morality is not a higher power. Certain of your moral beliefs may run parallel with certain Christian beliefs but that is probably only a coincidence. I don't believe you are at least partly following a higher authority.
Your moral belief system is evolving (microevolution, that is) and that is not always good or bad.
As an example, there are new technologies that require us to examine our beliefs and decide whether or not those new concepts are moral. The debate over stem cell research is an example. As I understand, stem cells require the sacrifice of a fertilized embryo.
* Is it moral to stop the life of the unborn embryo to possibly save certain lives of the living?
* Since the stem cells are needed for research which may or may not work out, does this change the moral question?
* If we knew for certain stem cells would save lives, does this fact change the moral equation?
Stem cell research is an issue that did not exist even 5 years ago.
The Naxis performed medical experiments on the retarded, handicapped and physically infirmed. Their purpose was medical research with the end goal of improving human genetics. Most of these human "lab rats" died or were severly hurt as a result of these experiments.
* Was this practise really any different than using stem cells?
Humans have used animals for medical research for years and years. This research often harms or kills the animal.
* Is this practise OK if humans benefit and only animals are hurt?
* Does this place a higher value on humans than animal?
* Why should humans be worth more than animals?
Your specific answer is less relevant than your reasoning and how that reasoning dovetails with your core beliefs.
