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9.
From our point of view, supported by the
biblical perspective that asserts, as stated above, that man is created "in
the image and likeness of God" (cf. Gen 1: 26-27), we reaffirm
that humans have a unique and higher dignity. However, humans
must also answer to the Creator for the manner in which they treat animals. As
a consequence, the sacrifice of animals can be justified only if required to
achieve an important benefit for man, as is the case with xenotransplantation
of organs or tissues to man, even when this involves experiments on animals
and/or genetically modifying them.
However, even in this
case, there is the ethical requirement that in using animals, man must observe
certain conditions: unnecessary animal suffering must be prevented; criteria of
real necessity and reasonableness must be respected; genetic modifications that
could significantly alter the biodiversity and the balance of the species in
the animal world must be avoided.(57)
The theological and
moral point of view sees no substantial problem in the utilization of different
animal species (nonhuman primates or nonprimates), but leaves
open the question of differing levels of sensibilities between animals of
different species and that of equilibrium among species and within a species.
The point should also be
made that Catholic theology does not have preclusions, on a religious or ritual
basis, in using any animal as a source of organs or tissues for transplantation
to man.(58) The question of the acceptability of
an animal organ, - once it has been established that personal identity is not
affected by xenotransplantation, and once all the general ethical requirements
of transplantation have been met, - becomes one on the cultural and
psychological level. Therefore, it may be possible to overcome initial
misgivings by providing the necessary support in an effective manner.
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