Ethical Concepts and Approaches- Biology U3 & 4

what are the five ethical concepts?

-beneficence

-non-maleficence

-integrity

-justice

-respect

what are the three ethical approaches?

-rules-based approach

-consequences-based approach

-virtues-based approach

what is beneficence?

the commitment to maximising benefits.

it encourages people to act in a way that benefits others, specifically direct stakeholders such as patients and research subjects.

what is integrity?

the commitment to knowledge and truthfulness.

it encourages individuals to act honestly and truthfully, especially when presenting results, regardless of any benefits or disadvantages to that person. it also encourages scrutiny and criticism.

what is non-maleficence?

the commitment to minimising harm.

it encourages individuals to act in a way that minimises harm as much as possible.

what is justice?

the commitment to fairness.

it encourages people to consider different people’s opinions and positions, specifically those impacted by a course of action.

it also prioritises the fair distribution of resources and equal access to the benefits of an action.

what is respect?

the commitment to consideration.

it encourages people to consider the value of living things, including their personal welfare, beliefs and autonomy.

what is a virtues based ethical approach?

an approach where an individual’s decision making is driven by their own ‘moral compass’

what is a rule-based ethical approach?

an approach where an individual’s decision-making is driven by the following of a set of rules or responsibilities regardless of individual circumstances or context

what is a consequences-based ethical approach?

an approach where an individual’s decision-making is driven by the outcome of the action, aiming to maximise positive outcomes and minimise harmful effects