Ethics Flashcards
What does ethics assume?
that there is a better or worse answer to a question
What makes a decision one of ethics?
can seriously impact on the welfare of others, it is a value judgement, doing the right thing
What is an ethical dillemma?
demand that a person adopt each of 2 (or more) alternative/incompatible actions. Will have competing responsibilities leading the person to feel torn
What are some of the bigger and everyday ethical dilemmas you may encounter as a veterinary nurse?
scientific procedures and then euthanasia, wildlife, financial constraints and treatment decisions
What are some of the consequences of poor ethical reasoning?
poor ethical decisions, loss of trust, moral stress, burnout, mental health problems
Who are the stakeholders in an ethical decision?
the people and animals considered
What are the 3 main (philosophical) ethical theories?
utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics
Describe utilitarianism
looks at the consequences of an action, costs and benefits, involves a cost benefit analysis, looks at the lesser of 2 evils and the greatest good for the greatest number
what are some weaknesses of utilitarianism?
lack of agreement on harm/benefit, difficult to estimate consequences of own actions, difficult to quantify
Describe deontology
based on the actual act, aims to follow a set rule which are followed reguardless of consequence. the application of the rules remains the same in all cases. rights are encompassed and are often the basis for law
what are some weaknesses of deontology?
too rigid to be practical, outcome may not result in the greatest good, rules may be conflicting
Describe virtue ethics
about the actor, concerned with being a good person. character is most important. If people are good people then they will naturally do the right thing
what are some weaknesses of virtue ethics?
cannot agree on what makes a good person, focussing on ourselves and what we are doing well makes us feel good
What are the virtues of a veterinary nurse?
compassionate, trustworthy, discerning, concientious, integrity
What are ethical frameworks?
formulas to help us make ethical decisions
