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Reconceiving Medical Ethics: A Comprehensive Exploration of Ethical Issues in Healthcare

Cameron Reed

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Published in Reconceiving Medical Ethics (Continuum Studies In Philosophy)

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Medical ethics, a complex and evolving field, grapples with profound questions concerning the intersection of medicine, technology, and human values. In "Reconceiving Medical Ethics: Continuum Studies in Philosophy," an insightful and thought-provoking book, Dr. H. Tristam Engelhardt Jr. offers a comprehensive examination of the ethical challenges and controversies that shape the practice of modern healthcare.

Reconceiving the Foundations of Medical Ethics

Engelhardt argues that traditional frameworks for medical ethics, such as deontology and utilitarianism, fall short in addressing many of the ethical dilemmas encountered in contemporary medicine. He proposes a new framework based on the principle of autonomy, which he believes provides a more robust and flexible approach to ethical decision-making. Autonomy, in this context, refers to the patient's right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare, including decisions regarding end-of-life care and resource allocation.

Reconceiving Medical Ethics (Continuum Studies in Philosophy)

by Christopher Cowley

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	573 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

Ethical Considerations in End-of-Life Care

End-of-life care presents some of the most challenging ethical dilemmas in healthcare. Engelhardt explores the complex issues surrounding euthanasia, assisted suicide, and palliative care. He argues that patients have a right to refuse treatment and to seek assistance in dying if they are suffering from an incurable disease and their quality of life has become intolerable. However, he also emphasizes the importance of providing compassionate palliative care that focuses on improving the patient's comfort and well-being.

Resource Allocation and the Ethics of Justice

As medical technology advances, the demand for healthcare resources continues to outpace supply. This raises ethical questions about how resources should be allocated fairly and equitably. Engelhardt examines different approaches to resource allocation, including utilitarianism, egalitarianism, and prioritarianism. He argues that no one approach is universally applicable and that decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual circumstances of patients and the societal values that are at stake.

Ethical Challenges of Genetics and Biotechnology

The rapid advancements in genetics and biotechnology have brought new ethical challenges to the forefront. Engelhardt explores issues related to genetic testing, gene therapy, and reproductive technologies. He argues that it is important to carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of these technologies and to ensure that they are used in a responsible and ethical manner.

The Impact of Technology on the Doctor-Patient Relationship

Technology is transforming the healthcare landscape, and this has a significant impact on the doctor-patient relationship. Engelhardt examines how technology can both enhance and undermine trust and communication between patients and healthcare professionals. He argues that it is essential to use technology in a way that promotes shared decision-making and maintains the human connection at the heart of healthcare.

In "Reconceiving Medical Ethics: Continuum Studies in Philosophy," Dr. H. Tristam Engelhardt Jr. provides a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the ethical challenges facing healthcare today. His innovative framework based on autonomy offers a valuable new perspective on ethical decision-making. By examining end-of-life care, resource allocation, genetics, and biotechnology, Engelhardt sheds light on some of the most pressing ethical issues of our time. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the field of medical ethics and for healthcare professionals seeking to navigate the complex ethical dilemmas they face in their daily practice.