Based On Case Study: Fetal Abnormality And The Requir 769716

Based On Case Study Fetal Abnormality Andthe Required Topic Resources

Based on "Case Study: Fetal Abnormality" and the required topic Resources, write a 750-1,000-word reflection that answers the following questions: What is the Christian view of the nature of human persons, and which theory of moral status is it compatible with? How is this related to the intrinsic human value and dignity? Which theory or theories are being used by Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson to determine the moral status of the fetus? What from the case study specifically leads you to believe that they hold the theory you selected? How does the theory determine or influence each of their recommendations for action? What theory do you agree with? Why? How would that theory determine or influence the recommendation for action? Support your response with appropriate references.

Paper For Above instruction

The moral and philosophical understanding of human persons, particularly within the Christian tradition, emphasizes the inherent dignity, worth, and intrinsic value of every human being. This perspective significantly influences attitudes and decisions regarding moral issues such as abortion, especially in cases involving fetal abnormalities. In interpreting the Christian view of human persons, it is essential to explore the relationship between divine creation, human dignity, and moral status, and analyze how different theoretical frameworks inform moral judgments made by individuals involved in such cases, including Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson.

The Christian view of human persons fundamentally centers on the belief that humans are created in the image of God (Imago Dei), which bestows upon every individual an intrinsic worth and moral dignity that transcends physical or developmental conditions (Genesis 1:27). This understanding implies that each human life, regardless of its biological state or health, possesses inherent sanctity and must be respected and protected. Consequently, the Christians' conception of moral status aligns most closely with the notion of intrinsic worth, often associated with a "virtue ethic" that emphasizes human dignity as an end in itself rather than as a means to an external purpose (Heschel, 2009). Such conception opposes purely utilitarian or consequentialist theories that evaluate moral worth based on utility or societal benefit.

In the ethical discourse surrounding the fetus, several theories of moral status can be identified. The foremost among these are the biological theory, which assigns moral status based on certain biological features (such as being a human organism), and the sentient theory, which grants moral consideration based on the capacity to experience pain or pleasure. Additionally, some consider personhood theories that focus on cognitive or moral capacities necessary for moral agency (Rachels, 2003). The Christian perspective principally aligns with a deontological view that upholds the inherent dignity of every human life as rooted in divine creation and does not depend on the fetus’s developmental stage or capacities.

In the case study, Jessica and Marco appear to hold views consistent with the biological perspective, emphasizing the fact that the fetus is biologically human and thus deserving of moral respect. Maria, on the other hand, seems to lean toward a quality-of-life or maximal well-being approach, possibly influenced by concerns about the fetus’s prognosis and potential suffering. Dr. Wilson’s position appears to be rooted in a medical pragmatic approach that considers fetal viability and potential medical outcomes, possibly reflecting a utilitarian perspective focusing on consequences.

Specifically, Jessica and Marco’s emphasis on the fetus’s being biologically human is evidenced by their statements valuing the fetus’s life simply because it is human. Maria’s concern about quality of life and suffering suggests a utilitarian influence, assessing moral worth based on projected well-being and suffering. Dr. Wilson’s recommendations for medical intervention or non-intervention are guided by outcomes such as fetal viability and health prospects, indicating a consequentialist orientation.

The moral theories underlying their perspectives significantly influence their recommended actions. Jessica and Marco’s stance reflects a deontological view rooted in respect for inherent human dignity—prompting them to advocate for continued pregnancy and protection of fetal life. Maria’s utilitarian view might lead her to consider abortion if fetal abnormalities imply suffering or reduced quality of life, prioritizing the well-being of the mother or the potential fetus’s capacity for suffering. Dr. Wilson’s pragmatic approach might lead to actions that maximize fetal survival prospects or minimize suffering, depending on medical outcomes, consistent with utilitarian principles.

I personally align with the Christian deontological view centered on the intrinsic dignity of human life. This perspective advocates for the protection of all human life, regardless of developmental stages or health conditions, recognizing each as a bearer of divine worth. Such a view influences moral decision-making by emphasizing duties to protect life and uphold human dignity, rather than evaluating moral worth based solely on consequential factors or capacities (Mavrodes, 1988). Under this theory, I would advocate for continuing pregnancy and providing support for the fetus, stressing that every human life has inherent value deserving of respect and protection, aligning with biblical teachings.

In conclusion, the Christian understanding of human persons emphasizes intrinsic moral worth rooted in divine creation, which aligns with deontological principles of moral status. The perspectives of Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson in the case study illustrate varying applications of different moral theories—biological, utilitarian, pragmatic—shaping their recommendations for action. Recognizing the importance of human dignity grounded in divine creation underpins a moral framework that advocates for the protection of fetal life, regardless of abnormalities or prognosis. This approach upholds the fundamental Christian belief in the sanctity of human life and guides ethically sound decision-making in morally complex cases.

References

• Heschel, A. J. (2009). The Sabbath: Its Meaning for Modern Man. Shocken Books.
• Mavrodes, G. (1988). The Sanctity of Human Life. In J. A. DiNoia (Ed.), The Moral Power of the Image of God (pp. 45-62). Ignatius Press.
• Rachels, J. (2003). The Elements of Moral Philosophy (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
• Genesis 1:27. New International Version. BibleGateway. (2005).
• Kaczor, C. (2011). The Ethics of Abortion: Women's Rights, Human Life, and the Question of Justice. Routledge.
• Clouser, R. (1991). The Myth of Religious Neutrality. University of Notre Dame Press.
• Warren, M. A. (1973). On the Moral and Legal Status of Abortion. The Monist, 57(4), 43–61.
• Kreeft, P. (2011). Catholic Christianity: A Complete Catechism of Catholic Life and Belief. Ignatius Press.
• Thomson, J. J. (1971). A Defense of Abortion. Philosophy & Public Affairs, 1(1), 47-66.
• Beckwith, F. J. (2013). Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice. Cambridge University Press.