Moral vulnerability among moral strangers: limits of the principle of permission

Abstract

This article presents a critical analysis of Tristram Engelhardt’s work, focusing on the principle of permission. It is argued that, in a context of intense social inequalities and denial of rights, the application of procedural ethics based solely on the principle of permission can result in the moral vulnerability of individuals and groups who do not share a certain morality. This can expose them to different forms of denial of rights, violence, exploitation, exclusion, and stigmatization. Given this reality, the importance of strengthening a bioethics committed to defending dignity, diversity, human rights, and social justice is highlighted.