Biomedical Technologies of the Kingdom or of the Cosmos?

This article by Father Jean Breck offers an Orthodox theological reflection on contemporary biomedical technologies, particularly medically assisted reproduction and genetic engineering. Adopting both a dogmatic and pastoral approach, the author examines the moral legitimacy of these techniques through the central question: do they belong to the Kingdom of God or to the Cosmos? Drawing on Orthodox anthropology — man created in the image of God — and on the patristic and canonical tradition, Breck distinguishes therapeutically acceptable procedures from those that violate human dignity or introduce a third party into procreation. He advocates for a nuanced, case-by-case pastoral approach rather than abstract condemnation. The article's contribution lies in the articulation of a coherent Orthodox biomedical ethics, distinct from the Roman Catholic magisterium, calling the Church to exercise public witness on these issues.