Bioethical concepts

Question 1

Consequences-based approach

Answer 1

an approach to bioethics that
aims to maximise positive
outcomes while minimising
negative outcomes

Question 2

duty– and/or
rule–based approach

Answer 2

an approach to bioethics that
promotes the responsibility of
the agent above all else,
and places importance on the duty
of each individual

Question 3

virtues–based approach

Answer 3

an approach to bioethics that
emphasises the individual
goodness of the agent, and
promotes acting in accordance
with the values of a ‘moral’ person,
such as honesty and compassion

Question 4

integrity

Answer 4

an ethical concept that
encourages a full commitment to
knowledge and understanding as
well as the honest reporting of all
sources of information and results

Question 5

justice

Answer 5

an ethical concept that
encourages fair consideration of
competing claims, and ensures
that there is no unfair burden on a
particular group from an action

Question 6

beneficiance

Answer 6

an ethical concept
that seeks to maximise benefits
when taking a particular position
or course of action

Question 7

non–maleficence

Answer 7

an ethical
concept that discourages
causing harm – or when harm is
unavoidable, ensuring that the
harm is not disproportionate to
the benefits from any position or
course of action

Question 8

respect

Answer 8

an ethical concept that
encourages the acknowledgment
of the intrinsic value of living
things, and considers the welfare,
beliefs, customs, and cultural
heritage of both the individual and
the collective