Bioethics

What is ethics?

A way of thinking about right and wrong to guide actions and decision-making.

What is bioethics?

The study of ethical issues arising in the life sciences, health care, and health science policies.

What are the three approaches to bioethics?

Consequences-Based, Duty/Rule-Based, and Virtues-Based approaches.

What does the Consequences-Based approach focus on?

It emphasizes the outcomes of actions, aiming to maximize positive results and minimize negative effects.

What is the focus of the Duty/Rule-Based approach?

It centers on the idea that individuals have a duty to act in a certain way, following ethical rules regardless of consequences.

What does the Virtues-Based approach consider?

It evaluates the moral character of the person acting, guiding behaviors that a good person would seek to achieve.

What is the significance of societal values in bioethical decisions?

Societal values can influence opinions on bioethical issues and affect trust in healthcare systems.

What is the role of science in bioethical issues?

To establish the scientific basis of the issue, including biological impacts and research objectives.

What is the importance of identifying biases in bioethical decision-making?

It helps individuals understand their perspectives and the influences on their judgments.

It helps individuals understand their perspectives and the influences on their judgments.

To assess the credibility and motivations behind the information regarding the issue.

What does the term 'stakeholders' refer to in bioethics?

Individuals or groups who have a vested interest in the outcome of a bioethical issue.

What is the relationship between ethics and informed judgments in science?

Ethics guides scientists in making informed decisions that consider the welfare of others.

How do the three bioethical approaches interact?

They often work together to inform the most ethical course of action in complex situations.

What role can a guardian play in medical decision-making?

A guardian can act on behalf of a patient to make decisions when the patient is unable to do so.

What is the consequence-based ethical approach?

This approach evaluates the outcomes of an action, aiming to maximize positive results and minimize negative effects.

What is the duty- and/or rule-based ethical approach?

This approach emphasizes the importance of following ethical rules and duties, regardless of the consequences.

What does the virtues-based ethical approach focus on?

It focuses on the moral character of the person making the decision and the virtues they embody.

What is the importance of stakeholder perspectives in ethical decision-making?

Understanding different stakeholder perspectives helps to navigate ethical dilemmas and find balanced solutions.

What is the ethical concept of Integrity?

The commitment to honesty in reporting all sources of information, allowing for scrutiny and contributing to public knowledge.

Give an example of Integrity in bioethics.

Owning up to a mistake even if no one could tell who did it.

What does the ethical concept of Justice prioritize?

The fair distribution of resources and equal access to the benefits of an action.

Provide an example of Justice in action.

Sharing your lunch with someone who didn't have anything to eat.

Define Non-Maleficence in bioethical terms.

The commitment to minimizing harm, ensuring that harm is not disproportionate to the benefits of an action.

What is an example of Non-Maleficence?

Hearing hurtful gossip but not passing it on to anyone.

What does Beneficence promote?

The commitment to maximizing benefits and promoting the wellbeing of others.

Give an example of Beneficence.

Helping an older person carry their groceries to their car.

What is the ethical concept of Respect?

Giving due regard to the welfare, beliefs, freedom, and autonomy of individuals and groups.

Provide an example of Respect in bioethics.

Feeling angry about restrictions but listening to your guardian and complying.

How can bioethical approaches and concepts be linked?

They can be used together to analyze ethical dilemmas by considering consequences, duties, and virtues.

What is the key question for the Respect Virtues-based approach?

Have the needs and autonomy of individual stakeholders been considered or honored by all stakeholders?

What is the significance of using data and evidence in arguments?

It supports the integrity of the argument and enhances the credibility of the analysis.

What does the ethical concept of Justice aim to eliminate?

Discrimination based on age, sex, gender, disability, pregnancy, religion, race, etc.

What is the goal of the Beneficence approach in bioethics?

To maximize benefits while minimizing risks and harms.