Chapter 9, Problem 9.1UYK

Explanation of Solution

Categorical Imperative:

Categorical imperative is that in all situations, the complete requirements must be followed and it should be acceptable as an end in it.

• The Patrick Fusion Software that advises doctors is paid for by Merck, a Pharmaceutical company.
• According to Categorical Imperative, it is not ethical, as it is observed that the doctors who use the software recommendation services prescribed 73% more vaccinations as compared to the group who did not use the services.

Therefore, the pharmaceutical company may intentionally recommend more vaccinate owned by it for increase in sales, which could harm the patients.

Utilitarian Perspective:

Utilitarianism states that the best action is the action which is beneficial for the greater good and maximizes utility.

• The Patrick Fusion Software that advises doctors is paid for by Merck, a Pharmaceutical company.
• According to Utilitarian Perspective, it is not ethical, as it is observed that the doctors who use the software recommendation services prescribed 73% more vaccinations as compared to the group who did not use the services.
• Therefore, it cannot be said whether Patrick Fusion Software was biased towards recommending Patients with vaccinations from Merck.
• It creates a doubt in the minds of patients and raises questions on the healthcare organization.

Therefore, it is not ethical according to utilitarianism as it is not the best action that could have been taken.