CHAPTER 3 - Paternalism and Patient Autonomy
Read any two of the articles of the student's choice at the end of the assigned chapter in Vaughn's textbook and submit a reading response. For each of the articles one chooses to read, there are 3 questions posted below for students to respond. (So altogether, you'll be responding to 6 questions since you are reading 2 articles.) Answer each question in your own words based on the careful reading of the assigned readings. Your response to each question must be at least one full paragraph. Answer each question in a new paragraph. The expected length of this assignment is 2-3 pages. I will not grade one-paragraph papers.
1. "Paternalism, Gerald Dworkin
a. What is Mill's view on liberty and paternalism?
b. How does Dworkin justify limited forms of state paternalism?
c. What does Dworkin say about the state's burden of proof in justifying paternalism?
2. "The Refutation of Medical Paternalism," Alan Goldman
a. Why does Goldman say that decisions regarding people's own futures are best left up to them?
b. According to Goldman, why is self-determination important?
c. What does Goldman say about doctors' and patients' differing views on the importance of health and prolonged life?
3. "Why Doctors Should Intervene," Terrence F Ackerman
a. According to Ackerman, how does the autonomy of patients relate to the principle of beneficence?
b. What does Ackerman say about the role of doctors in promoting the well-being of patients?
c. How does Ackerman address the potential conflict between patient autonomy and the doctor's expertise?