Using Kantian Ethics in Medical Ethics Education

Abstract

Contemporary medicine has unique challenges that render principlism inadequate as a sole paradigm for medical ethics education. Shortcomings of this ethical system include the often contradictory nature of the principles, difficulty with integration and internalization of the principles, and the inadequate treatment of moral relativism. Principlism has also contributed to the rise of consumerism in medicine by making autonomy Bchief among equals^of the principles.

Reallocating ventilators during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: Is it ethical?

“…This theory posits that we choose a particular choice, because we are morally bound to act in accordance with a certain set of principles and rules regardless of consequences. 17 Immanuel Kant (1724À1804), a proponent of such a philosophy, argued categorically that there are sets of unconditional principles (categorical imperative) that we must always follow, regardless of inclinations or desires we may have to the contrary. For example, if one believes that killing is wrong, then regardless of the situation, one must never kill.…”

Taking courage: Neonatal euthanasia and ethical leadership

“…Immanuel Kant’s ethical framework emphasizes the wrongness of acts in themselves and the individual’s duty to act morally. His famous Categorical Imperative to treat humanity “never merely as a means to an end, but always at the same time as an end” 9 outlines another perspective on the intrinsic dignity position. Kant’s position is in direct opposition to utilitarian frameworks which view neonatal euthanasia as a means to achieve equitable resource allocation or eliminate an infant’s suffering, for such philosophical calculations do not regard the neonate as an end, but as a means to an end.…”

Applications of machine learning in surgery: ethical considerations

“…Therefore, it is crucial to safeguard ethical measures in the development, deployment, and use of ML in surgery. While researchers must respect fundamental rights, applicable regulations, and core principles and values to ensure serving ethical purposes, reliability and technical robustness of each innovation must be critically apprised before introducing it to clinical practice [6,7] .…”