title: [Why should we research in bioethics?].
abstract: This article reviews the conceptual evolution of bioethics, conditioned by cultural changes. The discipline could be strengthened with new analytical methodologies and with an empirical approach. The dangers of a purely descriptive bioethics, solely linked to practical experience are also discussed. This may cause the loss of the regulatory frame, that allows bioethics to enrich medical practice from a humane and moral viewpoint. Therefore, there is a need to find the balance between the theoretical analysis and an empirical approach, to face the growing complexity of contemporary ethical problems.
mesh_terms: D001675:Bioethics; D003468:Cultural Evolution; D036262:Empirical Research; D006801:Humans; D012106:Research
vernacular_title: Por qué investigar en bioética?