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Playing Jesus to Save Species: A Virtue Ethics Approach to Biotech De-Extinction Projects

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The accelerating loss of biodiversity due to human activity presents a profound ethical dilemma. While conservation biology has typically focused on instrumental and intrinsic values, this paper argues for a virtue ethics approach, particularly in the context of controversial biotechnological interferences such as de-extinction. Drawing from virtue ethics, we explore whether “playing Jesus” to revive species like the thylacine can be a morally virtuous act, balancing respect for nature with care. Through a nuanced examination of species value, moral responsibilities, and the human role in species extinction, we suggest that understanding species preservation or revival through the lens of virtue ethics offers a more comprehensive moral framework than traditional approaches.

Source: Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Ethics

DOI: 10.1007/s10806-025-09950-8

Authors: Bjørn K. Myskja, Mickey Gjerris

Institutions: Norwegian University of Science and Technology, University of Copenhagen

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Philosophy and Ethics

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,090