Visit Stanford’s Encyclopedia of Philosophy ( and search for one of the Big 8 ethics theorists
(St. Thomas Aquinas, Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, John Rawls, Martin Buber, Lawrence Kohlberg, Victor Frankl). You may also use the web resources for each individual theorist provided in the text on page 25.Read about the different theorists and then write a brief summary of your thoughts on the relevancy of the philosopher’s writings to today’s healthcare issues.
Compare 4 of these ethicists and write about how we can apply these ethicists’ theories to today’s healthcare dilemmas. .
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Introduction:
In the medical field, ethics play a crucial role in decision-making as it helps in ensuring the principles of the profession remain integral. Understanding the views of different philosophers with regard to ethics can be helpful in addressing today’s healthcare problems. In this piece, we will discuss the relevance of some of the Big 8 ethics theorists and how their theories can be applied to current healthcare dilemmas.
St. Thomas Aquinas:
St. Thomas Aquinas was a theologian who believed that morality and ethics should be guided by God’s reasoning. In the healthcare field, his theory can be applied by ensuring that medical practitioners adhere to the principles of divine morality when making decisions on issues such as euthanasia.
Immanuel Kant:
Kant’s theory, dubbed the categorical imperative, emphasized on treating others fairly and with respect. For healthcare, this can mean ensuring that patients are treated with dignity and given the best possible care regardless of their social status or financial means.
John Stuart Mill:
Mill believed in utilitarianism, which emphasizes on the greater good. In healthcare, this theory can be applied by ensuring that treatment options benefit the majority of patients, rather than just a select few.
John Rawls:
Rawls’s theory of justice emphasizes fairness and equality. In healthcare, this can be applied by ensuring that all patients are given equitable care, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Martin Buber:
Buber’s philosophy was centered around interpersonal relationships. In healthcare, his theory can be applied by establishing trust between medical practitioners and patients, which can further improve patient outcomes.
Lawrence Kohlberg:
Kohlberg created a theory of moral development which emphasized on moral reasoning. In healthcare, his theory can be applied by ensuring that medical practitioners use sound moral reasoning when making decisions.
Victor Frankl:
Frankl’s theory was centered around individuals finding meaning in life. In healthcare, this can be applied by ensuring that patients are given the necessary support and encouragement to find meaning in their lives.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the relevance of the different ethicists’ theories cannot be overstated, as they provide guidance on how to address ethical dilemmas in the healthcare field. By applying these theories, medical practitioners can ensure that they make informed and ethical decisions that benefit the patient and the greater good.
