The utilitarian approach and ethical egoism are two ethical theories that offer different perspectives on how to determine the moral value of an action. In the context of euthanasia to free up hospital beds, the utilitarian approach would focus on the greatest amount of happiness for the greatest number of people, while ethical egoism would prioritize the individual’s self-interest (Rachels, 2018).
From a utilitarian perspective, the decision to euthanize a patient to free up a hospital bed would depend on the impact on the well-being of all involved parties. Utilitarians would consider factors such as the patient’s suffering, the well-being of the family members, and the benefits of freeing up a bed for other patients. If the overall happiness gained from freeing up the bed is greater than the unhappiness caused by euthanasia, then utilitarians would support the decision.
On the other hand, ethical egoism would argue that the primary moral obligation is to act in one’s self-interest. In this case, the hospital’s administrators might be inclined to prioritize freeing up the bed for the benefit of other patients, even if that means euthanizing a patient against their will. This approach conflicts with the fundamental principle of medical ethics, which is to prioritize the patient’s well-being and autonomy.
Ultimately, the decision to euthanize a patient to free up a hospital bed is a complex moral issue that requires consideration of multiple ethical principles (Jeffery & Barlow, 2021). The authors state that in addition to utilitarian and ethical egoist perspectives, one must also consider the principles of autonomy, justice, and beneficence. Autonomy requires respect for the patient’s wishes and beliefs, while justice demands that medical resources be allocated fairly. Beneficence requires promoting the well-being of patients, which may involve providing palliative care rather than euthanasia (Jeffery & Barlow, 2021).
In conclusion, the moral value of euthanasia to free up hospital beds depends on the specific circumstances and ethical principles involved. While utilitarianism and ethical egoism offer different perspectives on this issue, neither can be applied universally without considering other ethical principles. Ultimately, the most moral decision would be one that considers the well-being of all involved parties and promotes the principles of autonomy, justice, and beneficence.
References
Jeffery, D., & Barlow, D. (2021). The ethics of euthanasia for medical futility: A narrative review. Journal of Medical Ethics, 47(2), 73-80.
Rachels, J. (2018). The Elements of Moral Philosophy (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US). Web.