The Role of Christian Belief in Public Policy

Abstract

It seems intuitive to the believer that God intended through instruction in the Law to define morality, intended to lead humankind to “the right and the good.” Further, God's love for humankind, exemplified by the incarnation, atonement and teachings of Jesus, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, should lead to a better world. Indeed, the Christian worldview is a coherent and valid way to look at bioethical issues in public policy and at the bedside. Yet, as this paper explores, in a pluralistic society such as the United States, it is neither possible nor desirable for Christians to try to force their views on others. Still, it is obligatory for Christians to stand up and articulate their views in the public square. We should try to persuade others using either prudential or moral arguments. While we must be willing to live with “the will of the people,” at the same time, we must not be intimidated into accepting the position that our voice is not valid because it has a religious basis.

Keywords:

• abortion
• physician-assisted suicide
• public policy
• tolerance

Notes

1. On a personal note, I was the subject of a local TV news investigation entitled “The Ethics of the Ethicist” in which it was asserted that a hospital ethicist should be morally neutral. My ability to provide bedside ethics consultation was questioned because of the presumed bias of my Christian beliefs.

Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs. Opinion E-2.211. Physician Assisted Suicide. American Medical Association.