Ethics Disscussion Week 11
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Nightingale College *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
346
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by DukeIron7477
This week, you discovered the fundamental principles required for the
evaluation of moral norms like normative dominance, universality,
impartiality, and reasonableness while evaluating the four pillars of bioethics.
Now you will discuss the application of what you have read.
Remember, you
must demonstrate a good understanding of the reading, and as this
is a 300 course, you must paraphrase your source(s) with in-text
citations while refraining from direct quoting. Let’s jump in!
1. How does the principle of autonomy conflict with paternalism? Provide an
example.
2. Why is beneficence thought to constitute “the very soul of morality?”
3. Why is impartiality considered implicit in moral norms?
4. How might the practice of justice apply to nurses’ daily decisions? Pose a
question to the class related to the weekly material.
Be sure to respond with an active interest to expand the conversation and,
utilizing the Socratic method, pose a question.
1. How does the principle of autonomy conflict with paternalism? Provide an
example.
Autonomy is the idea that every person has the right to make their own
choices, even if those decisions may not be the best for them. In contrast,
paternalism is the belief that people should be protected from making
decisions that may harm them, even if they desire to make those choices
(Matthews, 2020).
Autonomy and paternalism represent two opposing views of the individual.
Autonomy values an individual's right to choose, even if wrong. Paternalism,
on the other hand, prioritizes protecting an individual from harm over their
right to make decisions. These two perspectives are fundamentally different
and often conflict (Matthews, 2020).
Example:
When a doctor suggests a particular treatment to a patient, the patient has
the right to decline that treatment, even if it means their health will be
affected. Suppose the doctor enforces the therapy on the patient against
their will, even if the doctor believes it is in the patient's best interests. In
that case, the doctor is acting in a paternalistic manner.
2. Why is beneficence thought to constitute “the very soul of morality?”
The principle of beneficence states that we have a moral obligation to act in
ways that benefit others and prevent harm. It is the cornerstone of morality
and forms the basis of all other ethical principles. For instance, principles of
justice and fairness are based on the idea that we should treat others with
kindness and promote their well-being.
Example:
Nurses act beneficially by providing care to their patients in a way that
promotes their health and overall well-being. Additionally, nurses work
beneficently when they advocate for their patient's rights and ensure they
receive the best possible care.
3. Why is impartiality considered implicit in moral norms?
Impartiality is the principle of treating all equally, regardless of any factor. It
is implicit in moral norms for upholding justice (Matthews, 2020).
Example
As a healthcare professional, a nurse must provide care to all patients
impartially, regardless of their personal beliefs or background. This requires
making decisions about patient care based solely on what is best for the
patient rather than personal biases or preferences. By acting impartially,
nurses can ensure that all patients receive the same high level of care and
treatment, regardless of their circumstances.
4. How might the practice of justice apply to nurses’ daily decisions? Pose a
question to the class related to the weekly material.
As a nurse, it's important to make just decisions that treat all patients
equally and provide access to necessary resources and care, irrespective of
financial status. Additionally, it's crucial to respect the rights of all patients,
including their right to autonomy and informed consent.
Question: How can nurses balance autonomy and beneficence in patient
care?
Matthews, G. W. (2020). Philosophical ethics. George W. Matthews.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help