Paternalism Theory Essay

End-of-life decision making has become a widely held debate in regards to the ethical and moral dilemmas it presents in our society. With advancing technology within the medical field our natural lives have been greatly extended, prolonging our quality of life, or so it seems (Fisher, 2013). Although it may appear to only be a positive contribution to one’s everyday life, it often has a habit of extending and increasing the burdens for individuals who suffer towards the end of their lives (Fisher, 2013). This can cause longer periods of debilitation, whether it is emotionally, physically, or financially (Fisher, 2013). In addition to this a patient’s dignity is often compromised, along with the loss of control, increased dependency, and increased

Depending on an individual competence, and if they are mentally mature to do so, is often the main factor in determining the level of control and intervention (Fisher, 2013). The theory basis itself on the idea of whether individuals who are close to the patient can be used as an agent in understanding the situation, and the possible steps to prevent any harm before it occurs (Fisher, 2013). Paternalism itself means “father-knows-best”, promoting the ideal that individuals believe they know best, and have more knowledge and skill because of their experience (Fisher, 2013). This is especially relevant to the case because it reflects the values of Mr. Latimer in the murder of his daughter Tracy Latimer. Mr. Latimer believed what he was doing to his daughter was for the better good, which is where we see strong evidence of paternalism theory. Through his ignorance and belief, this was the only correct option caused him to exercise what is known as weak paternalism. Weak paternalism is defined as paternalism that is used in an irrational fashion that could lead to harm to themselves or others, for this reason Mr. Latimer actions cannot be justified, and therefore are wrong (Fisher, 2013). On top of this Tracy Latimer’s autonomy was greatly limited, along with her medical and physical interests, promoting

The purpose of morality is to serve as a system of rules and obligations to prohibit particular actions within society, by generating co-operative behaviour, and regulating interpersonal relations (Fisher, 2013). Built upon mutual respect, the goal is for everyone to feel safe within society when one can adhere to the predictability of their actions (Fisher, 2013). Mr. Latimer did not abide by this regulation, taking drastic measures into his own hands, and ultimately causing irreversible harm upon his daughter. This is morally and ethically wrong, breaking not only moral rights, but political rights, and legal rights (Fisher, 2013). Mr. Latimer actions also cannot be morally justified, even though he had his daughter’s welfare in mind, Tracy Latimer’s human rights were compromised, resulting in a breach that can be explained through Paternalism Theory, and the Ethic of Care Theory. By executing what is known at weak paternalism, and breaking the two prong policy in the ethic of care theory, caused Mr. Latimer to fall into an a moral dilemma with negative consequences. Moving forward into the future it is important to learn from cases such as Tracy Latimer to prevent and learn from mistakes, taking moral decision making to new and better