In a five paragraph essay, apply ONE ethical theory to decide the moral course of action in the medical case of the premature twins studied in class. Apply the ethical theory to support your arguments. Not using the ethical theory results in an automatic zero. Using more than one ethical theory results in an automatic zero.
Title: Applying Deontological Ethics to the Case of Premature Twins
Introduction:
Medical dilemmas often pose complex ethical challenges that require careful consideration and deliberation. One such case involves the difficult decision-making process surrounding premature twins. In this essay, we will apply deontological ethics to determine the moral course of action in this medical case. Deontological ethics, championed by Immanuel Kant, places emphasis on the intrinsic principles of duty, moral obligation, and the inherent nature of actions. By analyzing the moral implications of the various decisions within the framework of deontological ethics, we can assess the most ethically justifiable course of action in this case.
Paragraph 1: Defining Deontological Ethics
Deontological ethics, often referred to as duty-based ethics, posits that actions are morally right or wrong based on their adherence to certain rules or principles. Central to this ethical theory is the categorical imperative, which requires individuals to act according to principles that would be universally applicable. In the context of medical decision-making, deontological ethics holds that the rightness or wrongness of an action should be determined by the moral principles and duties guiding healthcare professionals, rather than the consequences of their actions.
Paragraph 2: Analyzing the Case of the Premature Twins
In the case of the premature twins, a critical ethical dilemma arises when the physician realizes that there is only one life-saving ventilator available, leading to a potential conflict between saving one twin at the expense of the other. Applying the principles of deontological ethics, the focus remains on the inherent duty of the healthcare professional to prioritize the well-being and preservation of life. This principle overrides any potential consequences that may arise from the decision.
Paragraph 3: Applying Deontological Ethics to the Decision-Making Process
Within the framework of deontological ethics, the decision to save one twin at the expense of the other based on the availability of the ventilator would be ethically unacceptable. Despite the potential consequences of saving both twins being uncertain, the moral imperative dictated by deontological ethics emphasizes the principles of equality, fairness, and the preservation of life. Thus, the decision to allocate the ventilator based on the birth order or any other arbitrary criteria goes against these essential principles, rendering it morally unjustifiable.
Paragraph 4: Addressing Counterarguments
While some may argue that the limited availability of resources necessitates a consequentialist approach, deontological ethics maintains that the intrinsic moral duties and principles guiding healthcare professionals should never be compromised. Supporters of a consequentialist perspective might argue that allocating the ventilator to the twin with a higher chance of survival would maximize overall well-being. However, deontological ethics highlights the principle of treating all individuals as ends in themselves, rather than means to an end. Therefore, even if one of the twins has a higher chance of survival, it does not outweigh the moral duty to treat both twins equally and preserve both lives to the best of the medical team’s ability.
Paragraph 5: Conclusion
In conclusion, applying deontological ethics to the case of premature twins leads us to the moral imperative of treating both infants equally and preserving both lives to the best of our abilities. This approach is rooted in the principles of duty, fairness, and the intrinsic value of life. By prioritizing these principles over potential consequences or resource limitations, healthcare professionals can make ethically justifiable decisions that uphold the highest moral standards in medical practice. The application of deontological ethics provides a comprehensive framework for navigating complex and morally challenging medical scenarios, such as the case of the premature twins.