Introduction

This introductory chapter explores how Kierkegaard’s existential thought might contribute to bioethical discourse. First, surveying both historical and contemporary perspectives, it argues that, although Kierkegaard’s influence on bioethics has been mostly indirect, it is nevertheless significant. Second, it highlights some central Kierkegaardian concepts that are relevant to bioethical research and, in so doing, indicates the benefits of bringing the two into dialogue. Third, and to a similar end, it relates Kierkegaard’s existential approach specifically to matters of method in contemporary bioethical discourse. Finally, it introduces the remainder of the volume. After outlining its structure and briefly summarizing each of its chapters, it emphasizes the aim of this volume, namely to foster an inspiring and productive encounter and dialogue between Kierkegaard and bioethics.