ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the interaction between bioethics and law in the specific theatre of the courtroom. By way of a case study, it first argues that the voice of bioethics in the courtroom can be obscured because of the drama of the case. Secondly, the chapter acknowledges that the voice of bioethics will sometimes transfer through to the courtroom and law, both covertly and overtly. Thirdly, it suggests that a reciprocal transfer can also be detected, when we hear echoes of law’s products, processes and practices in bioethics. Finally, through an exploration of narrative construction and interpretation in law and bioethics, the chapter argues that there is no one truth but, rather, that the voices of law and bioethics offer multiple narratives of cases involving bioethical conflict – and that, accordingly, each field can benefit by ensuring that it is ready to receive the insights the other has to offer.
