Which Ethical Theory Of The 6 Approved Ones Only Kant Act Ut

Which Ethical Theory Of The 6 Approved Ones Only Kant Act Utilitar

Which ethical theory (of the 6 approved ones ONLY – Kant; Act Utilitarianism; Rule Utilitarianism; Care Ethics; Virtue Ethics; and Social Contract) would you apply to this topic to defend your stance? Explain fully. 250 words AND COMPLETE TEMPLATE A) In this reflection you must first define the key terms of the debate (for example, define what Euthanasia/Abortion/Stem Cell/Public Health/PreNatal Testing/Animal Research/Health Care, etc. means and what are the different types depending on which topic you are discussing) B) Define and explain the ethical theory you chose (show me you know exactly what the theory is and does – in your own words) C) Present the evidence both pro and con and follow up how using your ethical theory is the best way to determine whether or not your stance is really ethical D) Conclusion – any final thoughts and opinions would go here E) 2 to 3 resources as support for your evidence (text book counts as 1)

Paper For Above instruction

The debate surrounding euthanasia, particularly voluntary active euthanasia, is deeply complex and invokes numerous ethical considerations. At its core, euthanasia involves intentionally ending a person's life to relieve suffering. There are different types, including voluntary (with patient consent), involuntary (without consent), and non-voluntary (without patient’s input), each raising unique ethical questions. Some argue it respects patient autonomy, while others emphasize the sanctity of life.

In analyzing this debate through the lens of ethical theories, I have chosen Kantian ethics as the most suitable framework. Kantian ethics, grounded in the philosophy of Immanuel Kant, emphasizes the importance of duty, moral law, and the intrinsic worth of individuals. According to Kant, moral actions are those performed out of duty and in accordance with universal moral principles, encapsulated in what he calls the Categorical Imperative. This imperative mandates individuals to act only according to maxims that could be universally applied without contradiction. Crucially, Kant asserts that humans must always be treated as ends, never merely as means, emphasizing respect for human dignity and autonomy.

Applying Kantian ethics to euthanasia, especially voluntary euthanasia, raises significant concerns. Kant argues that actions that compromise the intrinsic moral worth of individuals—such as intentionally ending a life—violate the duty to respect human dignity. From this perspective, euthanasia can be seen as morally impermissible because itTreats human life as a means to alleviate suffering rather than respecting it as an end in itself. For example, even if alleviating suffering seems compassionate, Kantian theory holds that morality demands adherence to duty over personal or societal inclinations. Conversely, opponents argue that respecting patient autonomy is essential; however, Kant’s focus on duty and respect for moral law sidelines individual preferences that might justify euthanasia on consequentialist grounds.

On the other hand, utilitarianism, another favored ethical framework, assesses morality based on outcomes, promoting actions that maximize overall happiness. If euthanasia reduces suffering and increases happiness, a utilitarian might endorse it. However, Kantian ethics provides a stricter standard that emphasizes moral duties and respect for persons. Consequently, for Kant, the act of euthanasia breaches the moral duty to respect life, making it morally impermissible regardless of outcomes. This framework is invaluable for fostering respect for human dignity and promoting consistent ethical behavior.

In conclusion, Kantian ethics offers a robust moral foundation for evaluating euthanasia, emphasizing respect for human dignity and adherence to moral duties. While compassion and consequences are important considerations, Kant's emphasis on moral law and intrinsic human worth strongly support the stance against euthanasia. This approach underscores the importance of viewing human life as sacred and inviolable, even amidst suffering, guiding ethical decision-making rooted in duty and respect.

References

• Kant, I. (1785). Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. Translated by M. Gregor, 2002.
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Singer, P. (2011). Practical Ethics. Cambridge University Press.
• Shafer-Landau, R. (2017). The Fundamentals of Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Utilitarianism. (n.d.). Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/utilitarianism/