Case Summary and Ethical Conflict
Jessica is the subject of the case study, who relates the tale of her pregnancy with a child that has a rare ailment in which it is missing arms and may also have Down syndrome (Grand Canyon University, 2020). Dr. Wilson, the primary attending physician, informs Jessica and her husband, Marco, of the diagnosis as soon as they arrive at a county hospital. Despite Marco’s insistence that he wait until Jessica is psychologically ready, Dr. Wilson insists that Jessica has a right to know and that he has a duty to inform her of the scan results. Jessica struggles between her desire for further independence and financial mobility and her conviction that every life is sacred.
Moral Status and Theories in Decision-Making
The case study of Jessica and Marco raises significant issues regarding the nature of humans and the moral position of the unborn. Christians view people as having intrinsic worth and dignity because they believe they were made in God’s image. The sanctity of life theory of moral standing, which maintains that all people have intrinsic moral value and should be safeguarded from harm, is compatible with this point of view. Various theories of moral standing are being applied in Jessica and Marco’s situation to determine the fetus’s worth.
Insisting that a fetus is nonetheless precious despite its limitations, Jessica and Aunt Maria appear to support the sanctity of life viewpoint. The value of the fetus is determined by its ability to contribute positively to society and have a fulfilling life. In contrast, Dr. Wilson seems to support a more utilitarian theory of moral status. He suggested abortion as a “responsible medical alternative” as a result of the child’s low quality of life.
The recommendations for action each participant in this case study makes are influenced by the notion of moral status they each hold. Jessica and Marco believe in the sanctity of life and consider the fetus to be a human being with inherent value. Due to this, women are more likely to carry the pregnancy to term and care for the baby regardless of any potential problems. Aunt Maria concurs with this viewpoint and encourages Jessica to proceed with the pregnancy and have faith in God’s plan.
On the other hand, Dr. Wilson sees abortion as a medically responsible choice for the fetus with a rare disease and likely to have Down syndrome because of his conviction in the moral relevance of cognitive function and quality of life. He contends that the fetus does not yet possess a full moral position because it lacks cognitive function and might have limitations on quality of life. Each person’s moral status influences the value and dignity of the fetus as a human being. For Jessica, Marco, and Aunt Maria, the fetus has intrinsic value and worth simply because it is human. Dr. Wilson, however, views the fetus’s value and dignity as contingent on its cognitive function and potential quality of life.
Marco’s stance is less apparent, but it appears that he is motivated by worries about their financial security and goals, which may cause him to perceive the pregnancy and the child’s disability as a burden. The utilitarian view, which bases the value of the fetus on its capacity to enhance his and Jessica’s happiness and success, may also impact his decision. I concur with the Christian doctrine of the sanctity of life regarding the theory.
Regardless of their physical or intellectual limitations or capacity to benefit society, all people possess equal moral worth and should be protected from harm. In this instance, I would advise Jessica and Marco to carry the child and seek assistance from their neighborhood and medical experts to ensure the child has the care and resources needed for a fulfilling life. The essential worth and dignity of the fetus as a human being surpass any potential costs or problems, even though it might be difficult and demand sacrifices.
Recommendations and Ethical Guidance
In addition to seeking community and medical support, I would encourage Jessica and Marco to explore their personal beliefs and values regarding the sanctity of life and the responsibilities of parenthood. This may involve discussing their religious and cultural backgrounds and their hopes and fears for their child’s future. Jessica and Marco must be open and honest with each other, their families, and healthcare professionals.
They ought to feel free to share their ideas and feelings and collaborate to come to wise judgments that prioritize their family’s well-being and the inherent worth of human life. The Christian understanding of the sanctity of life and the notion that all people are morally equal ultimately drive my recommendation. These may not be the only viable viewpoints. Still, they are consistent with my ethics and values and offer a framework for making decisions in circumstances like these.
Reference
Grand Canyon University. (2020). Case Study: Fetal Abnormality.