Fetal Abnormality Faced By Jessica - Free Sample Solution

Question: Which theory or theories are being used by Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson to determine the moral status of the fetus? Explain. How does the theory determine or influence each of their recommendation for action? What theory do you agree with? How would the theory determine or influence the recommendation for action? Answer: The case discusses about the fetus abnormality faced by Jessica. Three major theories are considered for this discussion. The first theory that come into picture is ethical decision making. While Marco is not much bothered about the abnormality, he has ended up with the decision of aborting the child. This situation forces Jessica to move ethically (Drife and Donnai, 1991). However, there remains a high probability of aborting the child which is an unethical decision. John Stuart Mill's ethical theories relating to consequentialism and impartiality are highly applicable to this situation. As physical abnormality is detected, the doctor and Mario are identifying ways to manage and control Jessica so as to make decision accordingly. The situation highlights high partiality in the final decisions. Still, Jessica is frightened of the consequences and remains impartial. This theory has a strong influence on the decision taken by the parent. This scenario also reminds of the theory of prenatal attachment. This theory directly influences the child bearer and care taker. In this situation, Jessica and Aunt would play major roles as the former bears the child while the latter has had an experience(Yagel, Silverman and Gembruch, 2002). The attachment has forced Jessica to end up in mental issues and conflicts in decision making. The moral status of the fetus is mainly determine based on the ethical theories and virtues. I agree with all the theories discussed above. Still, the theory of impartiality is most appropriate to the given case due to the reason that the child has been neglected by its parents for the physical issue. The recommendation given by this theory would not only influence the moral status of the fetus but also the family on the whole. References : Drife JO and Donnai D. (1991), "Antenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Abnormalities". British, Springer Science Business Media Yagel S, Silverman NH and Gembruch U. (2002), "Fetal Cardiography". USA,CRC Press