4.1

Upcoming Reflection Assignment

• Due Date: Next Wednesday at midnight

• Length: Approximately 450 words (longer than theoretical answers)

• Focus: Engage with previous answers on whether health care is a right.

Engagement with Previous Work

• Evaluate Previous Answer:

• Consider if previous stance has changed based on new learning.

• Address agreement or disagreement with earlier conclusions.

• Use clear statements reflecting engagement (e.g., "I now agree based on..." or "I disagree due to...").

• Utilize appropriate language to demonstrate understanding of the topic.

Thesis Requirement

• Thesis Importance: 2 points (20% of grade) allocated for a strong thesis.

• Components of Thesis: Answer the question directly and provide reasons.

Citations Requirement

• Citation Guidelines:

• Cite at least two course readings within your reflection.

• Format in-text citations with author name and page number (flexibility in punctuation).

• Cite all external ideas (direct quotes or definitions) to avoid plagiarism.

Structure of the Reflection

• Outline:

• Reflection on the previous answer.

• New argument or justification with evidence from readings.

• Clear progression in reasoning and structure of paragraphs.

Reflective Thought Process

• Consider Overall Course Material:

• Connect insights learned throughout the course to your argument.

• Stay on topic, focusing specifically on the question of health care as a right.

Class Highlights

• Theoretical Discussion:

• Emphasis on reflective equilibrium: Balancing theories with intuitions to reach an understanding.

• Presentation of different ethical frameworks (libertarianism, utilitarianism, liberal egalitarianism, communitarianism)

• Exploration of moral vs. legal rights and the distinction between positive and negative rights.

Review of Ethical Perspectives on Health Care

• Libertarian View:

• Argue against positive rights citing individual freedom; health care obligations interfere with negative rights.

• Utilitarian Perspective:

• Suggests rights are contingent on maximizing happiness/benefits for society.

• Liberal Egalitarianism:

• Strives for fairness and equal access, advocating strongly for health care as a right, supported by John Rawls's veil of ignorance.

• Communitarian View:

• Focus on community definitions of good; rights may vary depending on social context and local values.

Additional Resources and Next Steps

• Readings for Understanding: Suggest students review course readings before class discussions.

• Key Concepts to Explore Further: Health care as a commodity vs. a right; implications of various ethical theories in health care policy.

Canadian Health Care System Overview

• Historical Context: A glance at the evolution of the Canadian health care system from 1947 to present.

• Canada Health Act: Mandates universal coverage but differentiates services (medically necessary vs. elective).

Connection to Current Discussions

• Economic Viewpoints in Health Care: Analysis of how viewing health care as a commodity impacts policy and delivery mechanisms in Canada.

• Challenges within the System: Acknowledge ongoing debates regarding equity, access, and efficient resource allocation.