10.1

• What is the primary purpose of ethics as a field of study?


  To guide us in doing the "right thing"
• What does bioethics study?


  The ethical issues arising from advances in biology, medicine, and biotechnology
• What types of topics can bioethical issues involve?


  Controversial or emotive topics such as euthanasia or abortion
• What are the steps typically involved in analyzing ethical issues?

  1. Identify a bioethical issue
  2. Explore the issue in context (research)
  3. Consider different perspectives (evaluate possible actions/outcomes)
  4. Choose a position/course of action based on reasoning
  5. Implement and reflect on your choice
• What is the first step in resolving ethical issues?

  Identifying bioethical issues
• What are the three approaches to ethical analysis mentioned?

  • Consequence-based approach
  • Duty- and/or rule-based approach
  • Virtues-based approach
• What does the consequence-based approach focus on?


  Considering the consequences of an action to maximize positive outcomes and minimize negative effects
• What questions should be considered in the consequence-based approach?


  Who or what is affected, possible benefits and harms, and which options produce the best and least harm?
• What does the duty-based or rule-based approach emphasize?


  The importance of following ethical rules regardless of the consequences
• What guiding questions are relevant to the duty-based approach?


  Who or what is affected, what duties relate to this issue, and what actions should be taken?
• What is the focus of the virtues-based approach?


  What a 'good' person would do and the moral character of the individual
• What considerations are important in the virtues-based approach?


  Who or what is affected, qualities of a 'good' person, and actions that reflect good dispositions
• What are the key ethical concepts used in research involving participants?

  • Integrity
  • Justice
  • Beneficence
  • Non-maleficence
  • Respect
• What does integrity in ethical concepts refer to?


  The commitment to searching for knowledge and honest reporting of information
• What is the principle of justice in ethical concepts?


  The moral obligation to ensure fair consideration and distribution of benefits
• What does beneficence entail in ethical concepts?


  The commitment to maximizing benefits and minimizing risks and harms
• What does non-maleficence involve?


  Avoiding the causation of harm and ensuring that harm is not disproportionate to benefits
• What does respect in ethical concepts refer to?


  Considering the intrinsic and instrumental value of living things and their welfare
• How does the principle of respect apply to ethical considerations?


  It involves considering the needs and choices of all organisms and individuals