After reading Chapter One in your textbook, apply what you have learned about ethical theories by looking at the scenario through each of the five theories. Complete the Ethical Theories Worksheet To complete this assignment, review the Ethical Theories Worksheet Guidelines and Rubric document. You must use The ethical theories worksheet which is attached below along with the rubric. The worksheet has the scenario on it. Purchase the answer to view it

Ethical Theories Worksheet

Scenario:

You are a doctor working in a small rural clinic. A patient comes to you with a serious illness and needs immediate surgery in order to survive. However, the patient does not have health insurance and cannot afford to pay for the surgery. The patient pleads with you to perform the surgery anyway, as their life hangs in the balance.

Utilitarianism:

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that focuses on maximizing overall happiness or well-being. According to this theory, the right action is the one that produces the most happiness or minimizes suffering for the greatest number of people. In the given scenario, a utilitarian would likely argue that the doctor should perform the surgery, even if the patient cannot afford it. By doing so, the doctor would be saving a life and promoting overall happiness for the patient, their loved ones, and potentially the community. However, a utilitarian might also consider the potential negative consequences of providing free medical care to patients who cannot afford it, such as strain on resources or the potential for others to take advantage of the system.

Deontology:

Deontology is an ethical theory that emphasizes the importance of following moral rules and duties. According to this theory, the right action is the one that adheres to a set of moral principles or duties, regardless of the potential outcomes. In the given scenario, a deontologist might argue that the doctor has a moral duty to provide medical care to those in need, regardless of their ability to pay. From this perspective, the doctor should perform the surgery in order to fulfill their duty to help others and promote the value of human life. However, a deontologist might also consider the potential conflicts that could arise if the doctor regularly provides free medical care without considering the financial implications for the clinic or the well-being of other patients.

Virtue Ethics:

Virtue ethics is an ethical theory that focuses on the development of virtuous character traits in individuals. According to this theory, the right action is the one that aligns with virtues such as compassion, integrity, and empathy. In the given scenario, a virtue ethicist might argue that the doctor should perform the surgery out of genuine compassion for the patient and a commitment to the value of human life. By doing so, the doctor would be demonstrating virtues such as kindness, empathy, and selflessness. However, a virtue ethicist might also consider the potential negative consequences of acting solely on compassion, such as the potential for burnout or unbalanced decision-making.

Ethical Egoism:

Ethical egoism is an ethical theory that argues individuals should act in their own self-interest. According to this theory, the right action is the one that maximizes an individual’s own well-being or self-interest. In the given scenario, an ethical egoist might argue that the doctor should not perform the surgery, as it would not benefit the doctor personally. From this perspective, the doctor should prioritize their own financial stability and well-being over the needs of the patient. However, an ethical egoist might also consider the potential negative consequences of acting solely in self-interest, such as damage to one’s professional reputation or a lack of fulfillment.

Ethical Relativism:

Ethical relativism is an ethical theory that argues morality is subjective and varies between individuals or cultures. According to this theory, the right action is the one that aligns with an individual or culture’s beliefs, values, or norms. In the given scenario, an ethical relativist might argue that the doctor’s actions should be guided by their own personal beliefs or cultural norms. For example, if the doctor believes that healthcare should be accessible to all, they may choose to perform the surgery despite the patient’s inability to pay. However, an ethical relativist might also consider the potential conflicts that could arise if different individuals or cultures hold conflicting beliefs or norms regarding healthcare access or the prioritization of resources.