This guide addresses the complex ethical dilemmas arising from advancements in medicine and technology. Arthur L. Caplan, a leading figure in bioethics, along with other fellows from the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Bioethics, presents a comprehensive overview of contemporary bioethical issues. Drawing on expertise from medicine, law, nursing, philosophy, psychology, and religious studies, the book integrates theoretical scholarship with practical applications. It aims to provide readers with clear answers and frameworks for navigating the ethical challenges of today.

The Penn Center's approach to bioethics, as represented in this guide, emphasizes empirical treatment and the integration of scholarship with practical application. This methodology suggests a focus on real-world case studies and actionable insights for readers. The book is designed to be a resource for understanding and answering the pressing bioethical issues of the day, indicating a practical and accessible orientation for its audience.