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My paper consists of three parts. In the first part I try to explain the intellectual basis of bioethics in developing countries. In the second part I describe the bioethical dilemmas facing these countries. In the third part I shall discuss the changes that have to be made in bioethics if it is to take root in these countries, and thereby help them to improve the human existence.

The bioethical dilemmas receiving the most attention in China now relate to the two ends of life: birth and death. On one end are issues relating to reproductive technology, especially birth control and family planning; at the other end is euthanasia... More research and discussion among people from various fields is needed. Progress will be made one step at a time, and I recommend that we proceed now to win acceptance of brain death criteria; to make clear the distinctions between passive and active euthanasia,...to encourage the use of living wills; and to protect the interests of newborns who are not terminally ill, including those with mild defects. In the changing context of modernization, in which different and even incompatible value systems must coexist, it is best for us to approach the ethical dilemmas facing us with mutual respect and understanding.