Posted by alexandra_k on December 12, 2004, at 17:19:49
In reply to Re: Any ethicists out there? » alexandra_k, posted by Dinah on December 12, 2004, at 16:54:16
Even with causal relationships, though, it makes a hell of a difference how we choose to describe them. For example, you could describe the causal relationship as one where the hospice is maximising quality of life whereas the hospital is minimising it. Or, of course you could describe it the way you have. My point is just that there are many causal relationships that could be described, so don't get too hung up on that.
> The fact that I meant well, or what my intentions were don't matter.
Yet I do not think that you would think this in the case of another? It seems to me that one could decide on selfish grounds, in which case one has acted badly not because of the outcome (which may be a good one) but because one has malicious intent. Likewise, the fact that you do mean well and are at pains over making such a hard decision should indeed factor in (in my opinion). This is the difference between virtue ethics (which includes intent) and Kant's moral law (for example) which does not.
>What matters most is that if I do A then X will happen and if I do B then Y will happen. That makes X and Y my fault. Trouble is that X and Y are unknowns. I can guess, but I don't know what they are yet. The fact that I don't know doesn't matter either.
I don't think that it makes it your fault - especially if you don't know what X and Y are! There are also many different ways in which to describe X and Y. Some good some bad. That is all I mean when I say that you should not regret your decision (whatever you decide). You should focus on the good that comes of it. Not get hung up on the negatives. Well, as much as is humanly possible anyway.
> I *hate* those quality of life decisions. That really does feel like playing God or being grandiose. Even with the dogs.You didn't choose to make this decision, it has been thrust upon you. What a b*gg*r of a situation...
poster:alexandra_k
thread:428310
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20041209/msgs/428448.html