Reflective Journal Template Topic Reflection Topicwhat Are The ✓ Solved

What are the key points of contention on this topic? What side of the argument (stance) do you take on this topic? What strong points does the other side of this topic have? What were the three most important things you took away from the topic?

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.

A) In this reflection you must first define the key terms of the debate. B) Define and explain the ethical theory you chose. 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 (textbook counts as 1).

Paper For Above Instructions

The topic of health care remains highly contentious, with numerous key points of contention surrounding it. These include debates about the right to health care, the roles of public and private sectors, accessibility issues, equitable distribution of resources, and the ethical implications of such policies. My stance is that health care is a fundamental human right and should be universally accessible to all individuals regardless of their socioeconomic status. Opponents argue that universal health care can lead to increased taxes, decreased quality of care, and long waiting times for services. They posit that private models incentivize competition and innovation, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.

Three important takeaways from this debate include: 1) The recognition that access to health care can significantly impact overall quality of life; 2) Understanding that health disparities exist largely due to socioeconomic factors; and 3) The acknowledgment that ethical principles can guide policy-making in health care.

For this reflection, I will apply Care Ethics as my ethical theory. Care Ethics, originating from feminist philosophy, emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and the moral significance of care-giving. It argues that ethical decision-making should consider the context of relationships and the dynamics of care involved. This theory is particularly apt for the health care debate because it advocates for a compassionate approach to policy-making, where the needs and well-being of individuals are prioritized.

In presenting the evidence, the pro side asserts that universal health care reduces the economic burden on individuals, prevents bankruptcy due to medical bills, and fosters a healthier society. Countries with universal health care, such as those in Scandinavia, often report better health outcomes and higher levels of citizen satisfaction. Conversely, the con side claims that government-run health systems can become inefficient, with bureaucratic hurdles that might hinder timely treatment and lead to rationing of care.

By employing Care Ethics, I contend that my stance on health care as a right can be ethically justified. This theory highlights the intrinsic value of caring relationships, suggesting that public policy should be designed to support vulnerable populations and ensure equitable access to health care. Through the lens of Care Ethics, we can better assess the ethical implications of various health care models and advocate for systems that prioritize compassionate care over profit-driven motives.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments on both sides of the health care debate, prioritizing health care as a human right aligns with the principles set forth by Care Ethics. These principles emphasize the moral obligation to care for one another and recognize that access to health care is intrinsic to human dignity. Ultimately, united efforts towards ethical health care access can lead to a healthier, more equitable society.

References

• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Kant, I. (1785). Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals. Cambridge University Press.
• Hursthouse, R. (1999). On Virtue Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Held, V. (2006). The Ethics of Care: Personal, Political, and Global. Oxford University Press.
• Rachels, J. (2003). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Singer, P. (2011). Practical Ethics. Cambridge University Press.
• Rawls, J. (1999). A Theory of Justice. Harvard University Press.
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Tronto, J. C. (1993). Moral Boundaries: A Political Argument for an Ethic of Care. Routledge.
• Gillon, R. (1994). Medical ethics: Four principles plus attention to scope. BMJ.