Foundations of Bioethics

Foundation of Bioethics

• Bioethics is the study of ethical issues arising in medicine and healthcare.
• It examines moral principles and values related to life, health, and patient care.

Human Person

• Personhood: Examines the concept of what defines a person, including human acts versus acts of man.
• Human Acts: Intentional actions done with full knowledge and consent.
• Acts of Man: Actions that are not voluntary or intentional.

Determinants of the Morality of the Human Act

• Knowledge: Understanding and awareness of the act.
• Freedom: The ability to choose and act without external constraints.
• Voluntariness: Acting intentionally with free will.

Modifiers of Human Acts

• Ignorance: Lack of knowledge that can impact the morality of an act.
• Fear: Intense emotions that can influence a person's ability to act freely.
• Violence: External force compelling an individual to act against their will.
• Concupiscence/Passion: Strong emotions affecting decision-making.
• Habit: Repeated patterns of behaviour.

Moral Philosophy

• Investigates the concepts of right and wrong in human life.

Ethics

• A practical science that addresses human acts, providing norms for good and bad behaviour.

Ethical Postulates

• Individual's Will is Free: Individuals have the power to choose, but not without consequence.
• Immortality of the Soul: A philosophical concept related to the ultimate meaning of life.

Public Policy

• Involves experts participating in the creation of policies.
• Policies are based on expert advice, influenced by legislators.

Justice

• Ensuring what is due to people according to laws and principles.

Paternalism

• Doctors and nurses decide for the patient, potentially restricting autonomy.

Autonomy

• Right to make their own decisions, given appropriate knowledge.
• Informed consent: Individuals have the right to understand their treatment options and make autonomous choices.

Compassion and Veracity

• Compassion: Natural empathy and care for others.
• Veracity: Importance of truthfulness and honesty.

Sharing and Allocation of Resources

• Decisions about allocating available resources in healthcare.
• Determining best ways to optimize care with limited resources.

Basic Terms in Health Ethics

• Beneficence: Doing good and promoting the well-being of others.
• Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm.
• Justice: Fair and equitable treatment for all.

Ethical Dilemmas

• Situations with conflicting moral values and choices, requiring careful consideration.

Types of Ethics

• General Ethics: Principles applicable to everyone.
• Applied Ethics: Specific guidelines for certain professions (e.g., nurses, doctors).

Evolutionary Phases of Bioethical Studies

• Medical Ethics: Originated in ancient Greece, focusing on principles of care.
• Hippocratic Oath: Summary of ethical principles for physicians.
• Research Ethics: Emerged as a result of historical events that highlighted the importance of ethical research conduct.

Other Key Concepts Reviewed

• Accountability: Taking responsibility for one's actions.
• Values Clarification: Understanding personal values and motivations.
• Autonomy: The right to make one's own choices.

This quiz explores the fundamental principles of bioethics, including the examination of personhood and the morality of human actions. It delves into the determinants and modifiers that influence ethical decision-making in medicine and healthcare. Test your understanding of these critical concepts and their implications for patient care.