ParticipationPoints_PHIL2050
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Nova Southeastern University *
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3180H
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Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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2
Uploaded by DrCrab1057
Astrid Yunapanta C
Professor Matthew Gowans
Philosophy 2050
20 March 2023
Chinese Ethical Perspective
1. Why is it moral under Confucianism for physicians to lie to patients?
According to Confucianism, telling the truth is not an absolute moral principle. Rather, moral
decisions should be based on the cultivation of virtues such as Ren (benevolence) and Li (ritual
propriety). In some cases, lying to patients may be morally justified if it promotes the patient's
overall well-being and shows respect for the patient's dignity.
2. Why is this approach different from Western paternalism?
The Confucian approach to truth-telling is different from Western paternalism in that it
emphasizes the importance of respecting the patient's dignity and promoting their well-being,
rather than simply following rules or protocols. Confucianism also emphasizes the importance of
relationships and social harmony, which may lead to different moral decisions in certain
situations.
3. Can a physician ever go against the family wishes?
The physician has a duty to promote the patient's overall well-being, even if this means going
against the wishes of the patient's family. However, the physician should also respect the family's
role as caregivers and strive to maintain good relationships with them.
4. In what way can respecting patient autonomy be seen as inhumane from the Chinese
perspective?
From a Confucian perspective, respecting patient autonomy can be seen as inhumane if it leads
to decisions that harm the patient's overall well-being or disrupt social harmony. In
Confucianism, the cultivation of virtues such as Ren and Li are considered more important than
individual rights or autonomy.
5. What role do Ren and Li play in Chinese life?
Ren (benevolence) and Li (ritual propriety) play a central role in Chinese life and culture. Ren
refers to the cultivation of virtues such as kindness, compassion, and empathy, while Li refers to
the social norms and rituals that govern behavior and relationships.
6. The article talks a lot about the difference between Western individual and Eastern
familial perspectives. What do you understand that difference to be?
The main difference between Western individualism and Eastern familialism is that the former
emphasizes individual rights and autonomy, while the latter emphasizes relationships, social
harmony, and the common good. In Confucianism, the cultivation of virtues such as Ren and Li
is considered more important than individual rights or autonomy.
7. Is it every okay for a Chinese physician to go against the wishes of the patient's family?
In some cases, it may be morally justified for a Chinese physician to go against the wishes of the
patient's family if it promotes the patient's overall well-being and shows respect for the patient's
dignity. However, the physician should also strive to maintain good relationships with the family
and respect their role as caregivers.
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