In this article the fundamentals of a Jewish ethic are set out, through whi
ch today's pressing medical ethical questions are then broached. Ethics der
ive from a basic view of humanity. The Bible teaches that man is created in
God's image, and every life is therefore sacrosanct. Second, since life is
God-given we are its guarantors, not its owners. Finally, monotheism sees
God as above nature and not in it, so nature itself is not holy-man can, an
d indeed should, try to improve upon it. With reference to specific medical
issues, the need to be wary of the erosion of the family unit and of perso
nal identity is stressed. Concerning abortion and stem cell research, the p
oint is made that an embryo is not a person but is a potentiality and there
fore not an object to be used. Regarding genetic intervention, a line is dr
awn between the therapeutic and the eugenic. Every technology carries with
it the possibility of diminishing or enhancing human dignity. What matters
is how we use it. The way to use it is in a covenant with God, honouring hi
s image that is mankind.