Discussion Topic: Principalism This Is A Discussion Post
Discussion Topic Principalismthis Is A Discussion Post About 250 Wo
Discussion Topic/ Principalism. This is a discussion post, about 250 words, tittle page not require In- text citation is required original work please, reference source. QUESTION principalism, especially in the context of bioethics in the United States, has often been critiqued for raising the principle of autonomy to the highest place, such that it trumps all other principles or values. How would you rank the importance of each of the four principles? How do you believe they would be ordered in the context of the Christian biblical narrative? Refer to the lecture and topic readings in your response.
Paper For Above instruction
Principalism, as a foundational framework in bioethics, primarily emphasizes four key principles: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Historically, especially within the American bioethical context, autonomy has often been prioritized above the other principles, sometimes at the expense of beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. However, I believe a more balanced approach is necessary, where each principle holds significant weight depending on the context.
In my ranking, beneficence and non-maleficence are most crucial, as they focus on promoting well-being and preventing harm. These principles serve as the moral backbone for patient care, ensuring actions favor the patient's best interests and avoid unnecessary suffering. Justice follows, emphasizing fair distribution of healthcare resources and equitable treatment. Autonomy, though essential, is important but should not overshadow the moral duties of beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice, as it sometimes risks individual freedom undermining collective well-being.
From a Christian biblical perspective, the order of these principles may shift. The biblical narrative emphasizes love and care for others, prioritizing beneficence and justice as expressions of divine command to love one’s neighbor. Autonomy, seen as individual self-determination, is valuable but secondary to the overarching biblical values of self-sacrifice, compassion, and justice. For instance, biblical teachings suggest that loving one's neighbor involves sacrificial service and justice, aligning with beneficence and justice principles. Overall, in a biblical context, moral duties rooted in love and justice may take precedence over individual autonomy.
In conclusion, while American bioethics often elevates autonomy, a biblically-informed view supports balancing all principles but emphasizes love, justice, and beneficence, aligning care with divine moral imperatives.
References
Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (7th ed.). Oxford University Press.
Gillon, R. (1985). Philosophical ethics and bioethics. Journal of Medical Ethics, 11(2), 63–65.
Kekes, J. (2003). A practical philosophy of bioethics. Routledge.
Pellegrino, E. D. (1981). Toward a virtue-based normative ethics for the health professions. The Kennedy Institute of Ethics Journal, 1(1), 31–43.
Scheid, T. L. (2010). Virtues and vices in healthcare: A philosophical analysis. Routledge.
Häyry, M. (2013). Morality and the future of bioethics. Cambridge University Press.
Wolterstorff, N. (2010). Justice: Rights and Origins. Cambridge University Press.
Yeo, R. K. (2007). Ethics in health care: A guide for clinicians and ethics committee members. Georgetown University Press.
Moral principles in bioethics serve as essential guides, but they must be adapted thoughtfully within different cultural and religious contexts, such as those informed by biblical teachings.