Abstract This article examines the evolution of bioethics over the past four decades since the publication of John Harris’ seminal work, “The Value of Life” (1985). It argues that while the core principles articulated by Harris remain relevant, bioethics has undergone significant transformation across four key domains. First, the expanding frontiers of biotechnology have necessitated engagement with complex issues beyond individual clinical ethics. Second, there has been a widening of the circle of moral concern to encompass nonhuman animals, disability rights, and global health equity. Third, bioethics has become increasingly entangled with public policy and governance. Finally, the field has seen substantial academic proliferation and institutionalization. These developments have pushed bioethics to adapt its frameworks and methodologies while maintaining fidelity to foundational principles. This article concludes by considering the future challenges and opportunities for bioethics in an increasingly complex technological and social landscape.

David R. Lawrence

Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics

剑桥医疗伦理季刊旨在应对生物学、医学和医疗保健方面的挑战，并满足在医院、疗养院、临终关怀中心和康复中心的医疗伦理委员会任职的专业人员的需求。该杂志的目的是作为国际论坛，解决医疗伦理委员会成员、医生、护士、社会工作者、神职人员、律师和社区代表所面临的广泛的严重和紧迫问题。

The Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics aims to address challenges in the fields of biology, medicine, and healthcare, catering to the needs of professionals serving on ethics committees in hospitals, nursing homes, hospice centers, and rehabilitation facilities. The journal serves as an international forum to discuss a wide range of serious and urgent issues faced by members of ethics committees, physicians, nurses, social workers, clergy, lawyers, and community representatives.

剑桥医疗伦理季刊旨在应对生物学、医学和医疗保健领域的挑战，满足在医院、疗养院、临终关怀中心和康复中心的医疗伦理委员会专业人员的需求。该杂志的目标是作为一个国际论坛，探讨医疗伦理委员会成员、医生、护士、社会工作者、神职人员、律师和社区代表所面临的各种重要和紧迫的问题。

Category	Quartile
医学	4
医学, 卫生保健与服务	4
医学, 卫生政策与服务	4
医学, 社会科学生物医学	4

Bioethics transformed: 40 years of the value of life

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Journal Info

Category	Quartile
SOCIAL SCIENCES, BIOMEDICAL	3