Abstract

This essay briefly examines the dynamics emerging at the intersection of legal phenomena and life sciences. In particular, it explores: the increasing multilevel and transnational dimensions of law as applied to the challenges posed by biosciences; the evolution of the criteria used to define juristic personhood as a result of bioengineering interventions at the beginning and end of human life, as well as in the creation of synthetic organisms; and the rethinking of fundamental values—such as autonomy, dignity, and the pursuit of happiness—in both Europe and the U.S., in light of the powerful capabilities provided by life sciences. These developments unfold in a disenchanted world, where both moral pluralism and individualism in personal life choices have flourished.

Finally, the essay also addresses the social dimension of autonomous health choices—a perspective that was once overshadowed but has been rediscovered in the wake of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction
2. The Emerging of “Biolaw” at the Crossroads between Law and Life Sciences
3. The Multilevel and Transnational Dimensions of Biolaw
4. The Blurring Contours of Legal Personhood in Biolaw
5. Autonomy, Dignity, and the Pursuit of Happiness as Principles of Biolaw
6. The COVID-19 “Stress Test” and Beyond: Solidarity, Self-Responsibility, and Health Literacy
7. Conclusive Notes