Contemporary Issues in Bioethics, Essay Example

Discuss the Utilitarianism theory, how it originated, and how the principles are used in this theory to achieve the common goal.

The Utilitarianism theory is applied to many disciplines due to its unique ethical assumptions. Assumptions guiding this theory advance that the proper course of action is to maximize utility interpreted as happiness and social wellbeing. At the same time efforts must be made to minimize harm/ danger or suffering. The theory originated as a branch of philosophy with interpretations from Aristotle as he tried to offer features of a just society whereby there is fairness in relationships among people (Sheng & Sheng, 2004).

Principles of this theory are used to achieve a common goal in many scientific endeavors. For example, the emergence of bioethics as a distinct science related to how professionals practicing in medicine and biology ought to make decisions in the best interest of their clients/pateints is a classic application of these principles. Controversies existed regarding how best to difficult issues requiring ethical interventions for adequate decision making. Applications of these principles have led the way to bioethics serving as a guide to professionals being fair in their interactions with clients/pateints and their families (Beauchamp, Walters, Kahn & Mastroianni, 2008).

Describe how you have used this theory in your nursing practice

The principle specifying the best action to take is maximizing utility interpreted as happiness has helped me remove subjectivity from decisions which must be made in the patient’s interest and perform an action which would promote happiness. For example, from time to time pateints would refuse treatment, which as a medical professional seems outrageous. In applying utilitarianism theory, it makes it easier to grant the patient his/her wishes without prejudice. If this action would produce happiness then, it is correct ethically.

References

Beauchamp, T. Walters, L.  Kahn, J., & Mastroianni, A. (2008). Contemporary issues in Bioethics (7th ed.) Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing

Sheng, C., & Sheng, Q. (2004). A defense of utilitarianism. University Press of America