Using a philosophical approach, there is typically no one single "right" answer given, but rather a process with which to think about, and analyze, a given set of problems. For instance, is euthanasia "always" right; certainly not, but under the right set of circumstances, it might be the kindest option available in a moral sense, but still not acceptable legally.
Create common ground- Common ground is created in medical ethics by finding a process to utilize disparate data and find a more appropriate solution.
Construct a more comprehensive understanding- No "system" or organization is capable of judgment, so it is up to the human professional to decide what is in the best interest of the client. To find a comprehensive understanding, one must pull from the templates and definitions of medical ethics: autonomy, justice, fidelity, beneficence, veracity, non-maleficence, and paternalism (ICN, 2006).
Reflect and test the understanding -- Let us say we were debating the medical issue of organ donation. Using a utilitarian approach, organ donation does provide good for others; and, when managed appropriated, can provide a greater good for society at large. However, utilizing a population for organ harvesting, or changing the model so that organ donation is seen as a profit-center as opposed to a humanitarian endeavor, certainly muddies the waters a bit. Some see the utilitarian argument justifying organ donation. For instance, if a doctor has several patients who have organs shutting down and who will die if they do not receive transplants....
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