One Strategy for Solving a Moral Problem:
One Strategy For Solving A Moral Problem:
In his book on life in the face of death, ethicist Ernle W.D Young describes an approach which has application outside of the hospital setting.(42) When dealing with a moral problem, it is helpful to have a strategy to apply in resolving the conflict. There are many examples of moral problems and numerous approaches which can be used to engage students in discussions. As is often the case, the analytical process, which needs to be developed within a meaningful context, is the critical component. Young's strategy follows: * Step 1. Define the problem so the dilemma is clearly understood by all parties: Determining whether a problem is on the one hand a matter of poor communication, failure to appreciate cultural or religious differences, or represents a genuine difference in values and principles means closely examining the issues involved. Some issues are readily addressed simply by clarifying the nature of the disagreement. There may also be more than one problem, which means prioritizing. * Step 2. Collect as much information about the problem as you can before beginning to think about a solution: Accurate, comprehensive information is important and seems at the outset like it should be a straightforward task. However, even the facts can prove to be contentious. Consider how different witnesses view the same automobile accident.(1)Equally important is to understand personal, religious, economic and cultural beliefs which are key components of the context framing the conflict. * Step 3. Identify the important values and principles for you and the others who are involved: Values are grounded in beliefs which may be held consciously or unconsciously and are sometimes highly charged with emotion. For instance, a belief in God may predispose one to value human life as the most important value. Though sometimes difficult to articulate and not necessarily derived from a reasoning process, beliefs have a legitimate
In his book on life in the face of death, ethicist Ernle W.D Young describes an approach which has application outside of the hospital setting.(42) When dealing with a moral problem, it is helpful to have a strategy to apply in resolving the conflict. There are many examples of moral problems and numerous approaches which can be used to engage students in discussions. As is often the case, the analytical process, which needs to be developed within a meaningful context, is the critical component. Young's strategy follows: * Step 1. Define the problem so the dilemma is clearly understood by all parties: Determining whether a problem is on the one hand a matter of poor communication, failure to appreciate cultural or religious differences, or represents a genuine difference in values and principles means closely examining the issues involved. Some issues are readily addressed simply by clarifying the nature of the disagreement. There may also be more than one problem, which means prioritizing. * Step 2. Collect as much information about the problem as you can before beginning to think about a solution: Accurate, comprehensive information is important and seems at the outset like it should be a straightforward task. However, even the facts can prove to be contentious. Consider how different witnesses view the same automobile accident.(1)Equally important is to understand personal, religious, economic and cultural beliefs which are key components of the context framing the conflict. * Step 3. Identify the important values and principles for you and the others who are involved: Values are grounded in beliefs which may be held consciously or unconsciously and are sometimes highly charged with emotion. For instance, a belief in God may predispose one to value human life as the most important value. Though sometimes difficult to articulate and not necessarily derived from a reasoning process, beliefs have a legitimate