Defense Date

4-2-2024

Graduation Date

Spring 5-10-2024

Availability

One-year Embargo

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

DHCE

Department

Health Care Ethics

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Committee Chair

Dr. Gerald Magill

Committee Member

Dr. Joris Gielen

Committee Member

Dr. Peter Osuji

Keywords

Human nature, human dignity, Ensoulment, will, die, death, existence, purpose, maker

Abstract

The first principles of bioethics, autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice have contributed immensely to healthcare ethics. The procedural approach streamlines the decision-making process, protects vulnerable subjects, and fosters stability and trust in the patient-caregiver relationship. Yet, the principles are demonstrably insufficient, riddled with limitations and loopholes that could stand in the way of care.[i] Several recommendations have been proffered to remedy the deficiencies. Value ethics, for instance, has been touted as a proficient addendum to the foundations established by the principles. Still, these have not sufficiently addressed all arising issues in bioethics. Besides the challenges encountered in decision-making, opposing moral communities still struggle to find common ground when confronted with topical ethical issues. Going by the nature of the principles and values, it is fair to extrapolate that they are peripheral to the human condition and therefore cannot address some deeper human needs in healthcare. What else is deeper than the principles and values, that touch on the core of our being, and around which moral strangers can unite to find a common ground when brought together by healthcare needs? This thesis aims to answer this question. It presents human nature as the fundamental and underpinning element of our humanity, the basis, and a common ground.

[i] Shea, Matthew. “Principalism’s Balancing Act: Why the Principles of Biomedical Ethics Need a Theory of the Good.” journal of Medical & Philosophy 45 (4/5), 2020. 442-444.

Language

English

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