Moral Problems in Medicine: A Practical Coursebook - Softcover

Palmer, Michael

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0718891783 ISBN 13: 9780718891787

Publisher: Lutterworth Press, 2005

Synopsis

A selection of philosophical writings can be daunting to the uninitiated in the field of philosophy. Michael Palmer makes the process of becoming acquainted with philosophical texts smoother in this practical coursebook. Designed to equip students of clinical school and nursing with essential ethical awareness for medical dilemmas, this guide to reflecting upon moral medical problems covers an impressive scope. Controversial issues, including: euthanasia, abortion, vivisection, human-testing and behaviour control, are examined in considerable detail, as well as issues such as the right to self-determination and the limits of confidentiality. Students are invited to explore each issue with the use of philosophical questions. The very concept of ethics is investigated and chapters on egoism, utilitarianism, Kant's theories, determinism and meta-ethics are included. The discussion extends into the relatively unexplored area of cutting-edge genetic research and gives readers a sense of how existing thinking can be applied when new developments arise. Each topic is lucidly introduced and then examined in more depth through extracts taken from such major ethical thinkers as James Rachels, Sissela Bok and Peter Singer. Case-studies are provided so that the student can place often overwhelming philosophical theories in context. This demonstrates how philosophy is still very much applicable to the present-day. Hypothetical questions test the student's understanding and comprehension questions demand evaluation of the text. In addition, a detailed bibliography at the end of each chapter provides opportunities for further research and reading. This informative introduction to ethical awareness provides the reader with vital theoretical tools for the management of real medical concerns. Although aimed primarily at students, it will also prove a valuable, thought-provoking resource for doctors, nurses, paramedics, those employed in healthcare management, and members of the public concerned with the ethics of medical practice.

About this title

About the Author

Dr. Michael Palmer has taught extensively in schools and universities on both sides of the Atlantic. Following the prestigious award of the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship at the University of Marburg, he was invited to found a philosophy course at Manchester Grammar School, where he remained for eight years as the Head of the Department of Religion and Philosophy. The course attracted national attention; Palmer's Moral Problems formed a substantial component of the course and is also published by The Lutterworth Press. Other titles by Michael Palmer published by the Lutterworth Press: Moral Problems: A Coursebook For Schools and Colleges (1st Edition) Moral Problems: A Coursebook For Schools and Colleges (2nd Edition)

Edition details

• Publisher: Lutterworth Press
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0718891783
• ISBN 13: 9780718891787
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192