Health and Human Values

Although modern developments in medical science have produced some dramatic benefits, they have also raised difficult and sometimes controversial moral and legal questions. How much information should a physician give to a patient? If preserving life means increasing suffering, should every means be exercised to prolong life? Should we screen the population and reduce the reproductive freedom of individuals with genetic diseases? In an era of staggering increases in health care costs, should the new medical benefits go to those who can afford them or should the government devise systems that distribute risks and benefits more equally? Frank Harron, John Burnside, and Tom Beauchamp examine these and many other questions confronted today by health care professionals, patients and their families, policy makers, and all informed, responsible citizens. They explore such provocative problems as euthanasia, abortion, in vitro fertilization, health care and distributive justice, truth-telling and informed consent, determination of death, and genetic engineering. Their approach reaches behind the headlines and beyond the controversy to enable the reader to make his or her own informed decisions. Each chapter contains actual case studies followed by questions that highlight the dilemmas embedded in the case. The main portion of the chapter provides background examination of key medical, philosophical, legal, and public policy factors. Excerpts from leading writers in medicine, law, theology, and philosophy and an annotated bibliography of other printed and audio/visual resources are provided for every topic. The capabilities that medical science has provided have come upon us before we are ready with a working consensus. Each person must find his or her own bearings in this era of rapid transition in values and then contribute to societys struggle to make fair and enlightened laws and policies. This book assists the reader to cope and to participate in the crucial, even vital, decisions we all face.