Issue Thirty Nine

April 2013

We face new challenges in bringing a Catholic perspective to public debates. John Kleinsman reflects on this question in his Editorial "The Church (and bioethics) in the (post) modern world".

Andrew Bradstock, Professor of Theology and Public Issues at the University of Otago reflects on the challenges of "Promoting good discussion on public issues." Noting that many people find it odd that theology might have anything interesting or worthwhile to say, he suggests that because of the fresh and constructive nature of the insights theology generates, it can add value to debates that might have become "stale and circular."

Consultant in Paediatric Palliative Medicine Richard Hain in his article "Intensive care: because you're worth it?" explores the question: "Are there children for whom intensive care and resuscitation are not appropriate?"

"A comment on the Liverpool Care Pathway" by Professor David Jones responds to recent criticisms levelled at the Pathway. This issue is of particular concern given the current debate in New Zealand regarding the funding of the LCP National Office.

"Making a difference in aged care – thoughts of a geriatrician" In a very candid and personal reflection, Wellington based Consultant Geriatrician and Palliative Medicine Physician Janet Turnbull shares the insights gained from her extensive experiences of working with the elderly. While challenging the tendency for older people to be viewed as a threat, she concludes: "We need to see old age as a possibility for growth and handing on knowledge."