The four principles in biomedical ethics and their ranking ✓ Solved

Topic 3 DQ 1: The four principles, especially in the context of bioethics in the United States, have often been critiqued for raising the principle of autonomy to the highest place, such that it trumps all other principles or values. 1. How would you rank the importance of each of the four principles? 2. How do you believe they would be ordered in the context of the Christian biblical narrative?

Refer to the topic study materials in your response. Resource Material Chapters 3: Citation: Hoehner, P. (2020). Practicing Dignity: An Introduction to Christian Values and Decision Making in Health Care.

Paper For Above Instructions

Biomedical ethics is a critical field that often intersects with various ethical frameworks, including the Christian narrative. The four principles of biomedical ethics—autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice—play significant roles in shaping health care decisions and policies. In determining how to rank these principles, one must consider their implications both in a secular context and through a biblical lens.

Ranking of the Four Principles of Biomedical Ethics

When examining the four principles, I propose the following ranking from most to least important: 1) Non-maleficence, 2) Beneficence, 3) Justice, and 4) Autonomy. This ranking is derived from a focus on patient safety, care quality, and ethical fairness, aligning with Christian values that prioritize the sanctity of life and the well-being of others.

1. Non-maleficence

Non-maleficence, or the commitment to "do no harm," is foundational to medical practice. This principle ensures that health care professionals prioritize patient safety above all else. In a Christian context, doing no harm aligns with the theological understanding of stewardship over human life. Scripture emphasizes the importance of caregiving and the moral duty to prevent harm: “...You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13, ESV) encapsulates the sanctity of life. Therefore, this principle must be ranked highest in both bioethical and biblical contexts.

2. Beneficence

Beneficence emphasizes the obligation to act in the best interest of the patient by providing benefits while minimizing harm. This principle reflects the Christian call for kindness and love toward others; for example, Hebrews 13:16 states, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” In health care, this means that providers must not only avoid causing harm but actively seek to improve patient outcomes through their interventions.

3. Justice

Justice pertains to fairness and equality in the distribution of health care resources and treatment. It demands that everyone receives care without discrimination. In the Christian narrative, justice reflects God’s impartiality and the requirement to love one’s neighbor (Galatians 5:14). This principle encourages equitable treatment and resource allocation, making it essential, though ranked lower than non-maleficence and beneficence, as fair treatment can still lead to harm if not coupled with appropriate care.

4. Autonomy

While autonomy emphasizes the importance of respecting individuals’ rights to make informed decisions about their health, it ranks the lowest in my evaluation. The Christian narrative respects free will but also underscores that true autonomy should align with God’s teachings. Proverbs 16:3 implores believers to commit their actions to the Lord for a prosperous outcome. Autonomy must be exercised in informed contexts, where individuals make decisions without compromising their well-being or the ethical principles guiding health care practice.

Christian Context and Bioethics

Incorporating the Christian narrative into the ranking of these principles reveals important insights. The biblical perspective emphasizes that all humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), which establishes a high value on life and a moral duty not to cause harm (non-maleficence). Moreover, the teachings of Christ encourage believers to serve others (Mark 10:45), reinforcing the prioritization of beneficence.

Interactions Among the Principles

The relationships between these principles are vital when addressing ethical dilemmas in health care. They do not exist in isolation but interact to inform comprehensive care strategies. For instance, respecting patient autonomy may sometimes require navigating the tension between non-maleficence and beneficence. Decisions may arise where what the patient desires could lead to potential harm; hence, health care providers must engage in thoughtful discussions about the implications of those choices.

Conclusion

The four principles of biomedical ethics—non-maleficence, beneficence, justice, and autonomy—are inherently interrelated and pivotal in both secular and Christian contexts. My ranking reflects a view that firmly roots ethical decision-making in the responsibility to do no harm, promote patient welfare, ensure fairness, and ultimately respect individual autonomy as informed by biblical teachings. This nuanced understanding fosters ethical, compassionate, and morally responsible care in health care settings.

References

• Hoehner, P. (2020). Practicing Dignity: An Introduction to Christian Values and Decision Making in Health Care.
• The Holy Bible. (2014). English Standard Version.
• Sandford, G. (2019). Ethics in Healthcare. Journal of Medical Ethics.
• AANA. (2015). Code of Ethics for Nurse Anesthetists.
• ANA. (2015). Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements.
• McCormick, J. (2016). Bioethics: Principles and Issues. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Fowler, M. D. M. (2016). Guide to Nursing Ethics: Philosophical and Practical Perspectives. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.
• Rachels, J. (2015). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Gillon, R. (1994). Medical Ethics: Four Principles in Medical Practice. BMJ.