Ethics of care emerged as a feminist philosophical theory based on the relative and context-linked approach to decision-making and morality. Nevertheless, this concept has a paternalistic reputation because of its framework of care. Therefore, care ethics has become a major subject of criticism, though it does challenge common theories of care.
Nowadays, the concept has become popular among healthcare professionals, as well as critics. It expands the space for various interpretations, which may ignite criticism, which often sees the concept-based practices as paternalistic. Such a view may stem from the assumption that care means responsibility for those who need care or are dependent (Held 1). In turn, this responsibility may mean the superiority of a caring person over a dependent one. The reason for this can be implied in the belief that someone who needs care does not understand the ways of improving his or her condition. Therefore, the criticism of care ethics can be ignited by the seeming exclusion of the dependent from participation in a care process.
However, one can suggest that the ethics of care obtained a wrong interpretation. Held would say that the concept recognizes the nature of human dependence and substitutes moralities with emotions (1). It abandons the rationalization of moral theories and allows for trustful relations, which help decide what would be the best option for a person needing care (Held 1). Moreover, the rules of other theories often ignore the context of relationships, while the ethics of care is more flexible in these terms as it considers real-life circumstances.
To conclude, one cannot affirm whether care ethics is unfavorable for patients due to its alleged paternalism. Although there is much criticism expressed toward the concept, ethics of care can suggest new frameworks of care. It challenges commonly accepted theories of care and provides a more holistic and empathic view of those who need care.
Works Cited
Held, Virginia. “The Ethics of Care”. [PDF file]. pp. 1-2