Theories Flashcards
What is principlism?
A way of analysing ethical dilemmas in medicine
4 principles coined by Beachamp and Childress
The principles are non hierachrical
What are the principles used in principlism?
Respect for autonomy
Beneficence (promote overall benefit)
Non-malificence (avoid causing harm)
Justice (fair allocation of services/ equality among patients from all walks of life)
What is consequentialism?
The theory that the morally correct course of action is that which results in the best overall outcome, irrespective of the means used to achieve those consequences
The inherant wrongness/rightness of the action is not considered
What is utilitarianism?
A consequentialist theory
The morally correct course of action is that which promotes the greatest happiness of the greatest number
The consequences of an action must be considered across time (current and future generations)
Net happiness considered
Overlooks the means, focuses on ends
What is the opposite of utilitarianism?
Deontological theory
What is deontological theory?
Focuses on duties and rules rather and consequences
Some acts are intrinsically wrong/right irrespective of consequences that may follow
eg murder, torture, lying are intrinsically wrong
What is an extremer subset of deontology?
Katianism
Moral rules must apply universally (eg never kill)
Moral rules should be used only if they can be applied in every situation equally
Do not lie (but could with-hold truth?)
More concerned with action rather than inaction
What is the theory behind virtue ethics?
Every action taken by a virtuous individual achieves ‘eudaimonia’ (human flourishing)
To be able to rationally identify relevant characteristics (virtues) and incorporate them into a decision-making process
Name the main virtues of a good doctor
Honesty
Compassion
Integrity
Justice
What is casuistry?
A method of applying theories
‘Case based’ approach to solving ethical dilemmas
Cases are analysed in detail and compared to the ‘paradigm’ case
If similar, the same course of action is taken
What is narrative ethics?
Use of cases as stories for their content (holistic view)
Analysis of these stories to create an analytical and reflective approach to learning
Useful in solving every-day medical dilemmas
Narratives are listened to (wishes, beliefs)
What is the distinction between a positive and a negative right?
Negative right implies a right to non-interference (right not to be killed)
Positive right imposes positive duties of support or assistance on others (right to life, ensure life is saved)
