Case Analysis --Texas brain death case

We'll start our case analysis online and continue in class tomorrow (Thurs 30 Jan).  In groups of 3 (whomever happens to show up together at each stage), for the Texas brain-dead pregnant woman Munoz, let's analyze the case step-by-step.  So, the first three folks to respond collectively need to "present the problem".  Then the next 3 address the next blue topic.  You can work it out in real-time on the blog, no need to create a unified or polished answer outside of the blog.

Stage I. Presentation

1.      Present the problem

a.      Identify the issue

b.      Define the moral situation

2.      Collect information

a.      List morally relevant facts

b.      List non-moral relevant facts (e.g., legal, economic, psychological, etc.)

Stage II.  Analysis

3.      List relevant values

a.      Identify moral values important to persons in the case (e.g., Integrity, Respect for Persons, Compassion, Justice, Beneficence/Nonmaleficence, Responsibility)

b.      Identify non-moral values important to persons in the case (e.g., economic, intellectual, social, spiritual, etc.)

c.       Identify possible value conflicts. (Is there a true ethical conflict, or a conflict between ethical and other values?

4.      Explore options

a.      How do different theories interpret and apply the relevant values? (e.g. care, consequentialist, duty, narrative, rights, virtue)

b.      Which options are favored by more than one theory?       

5.      Assess rightness/wrongness of various outcomes

a.      Option 1

b.      Option 2

c.       Option 3

6.      Decide which option solves the moral problem

Stage III. Review

7.      Defend the decision

a.      Give reasons to explain the decision.

b.      Assess the strength of the reasons (relevant, consider all affected persons, consider central moral values).

8.      Reflect

a.       What objections can be made to the decision?

b.      How could this problem have been avoided?

Current events - January

27Jan14 Follow-up to brain-dead cases
 http://nyti.ms/1jLjPUC  Doctors had cited a Texas law that prevents them from withdrawing or withholding “life-sustaining treatment” from a pregnant patient.
 http://america.aljazeera.com/opinions/2014/1/the-munoz-lessonhowthelawfailsusatthebeginningandendoflife.html


I'll start by posting an article about brain death -- focusing on two high-profile U.S. cases.  Please read it and comment.  In additional post(s) respond with stories from the news that are relevant to class.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/10/health/the-science-behind-brain-death.html?_r=0

Case 4 Dentist (due by 27Jan)

The first student to respond should briefly summarize the case so we all remember what we're talking about!

Then, collectively, answer the questions at the end of the case.  Work together to create thorough, well-thought out answers.  Challenge (gently!) each other until you get a satisfying response.  You might not all agree, which is fine.

Case 3 Voluntary Sterilization (due 27Jan)

The first student to respond should briefly summarize the case so we all remember what we're talking about!

Then, collectively, answer the questions at the end of the case.  Work together to create thorough, well-thought out answers.  Challenge (gently!) each other until you get a satisfying response.

Frontline "Facing Death" (due Thurs 16Jan)

What was your first reaction to the video?  What was most surprising to you?  Has anyone had a similar experience with health care?

Make an initial post responding to the above questions.  Then, respond to at least one post from a classmate.  (We're aiming for a rich discussion among the entire class, rather than each of you just responding to my prompt).

Introductions & Expectations (Due Thurs 16Jan14)

Who are you and what makes you tick?  Why are you in this class and what do you expect it to be like?  Please tell us about relevant academic, career, and personal goals.  Be sure to comment on at least two other classmates' posts.