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Allocation of Resources
Jennifer Kennedy
School of Behavorial Sciences, Liberty University
AMAO 256: Medical Office Ethics & Law
Professor Rebecca Farmer
June 5, 2023
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Allocation of Resources
As we approached the American Recession of 2007-2009 it showed, economic downturns
that created new groups of people who are struggling to make ends meet. These people are being
referred to as the "new poor" who may have been previously middle class or even wealthy, but
have lost their jobs, homes, and savings due to the recession. At the same time, there are those
who have been living in poverty for generations, relying on government assistance for everyday
basic needs. The question of who should be allocated limited resources is a difficult and complex
one to answer. It is clear that those who are most in need should receive the most help.
On the one hand, it can be argued that those who can afford to pay should receive
medical preference over those who cannot. This argument is based on the principle of individual
responsibility and the belief that those who work hard and make good decisions should be
rewarded. According to this perspective, it would not be fair to expect those who have worked
hard and made sacrifices to subsidize the healthcare costs of those who have not.
From a biblical perspective, the issue regarding resource allocation can be viewed
through the lens of stewardship. The Bible teaches us that we are called to be good stewards of
the resources that God has so graciously given us, and to use these resources in a manner that
honors God and serve. This would mean we should strive to allocate resources in a way that is
fair, just, and compassionate.
One proposed solution is to prioritize those who are actively seeking to improve their
situation. This means that those who have lost their jobs, homes, and savings due to
circumstances beyond their control should be given priority over those who have never worked
and continue to live off government assistance. This could help ensure that resources are being
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used to help those who are actively working to improve their situation and to become self-
sufficient.
Another proposed solution could be to prioritize those who are most in need, regardless
of their ability to pay. That would mean those who are unable to pay for medical care or housing
should be given priority over those who can afford to pay, regardless of age. This would help
ensure that resources are being used to help those who are most vulnerable and in need of
assistance.
Finally, there is the issue of generational dependence on government assistance. This is
another complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. While it is important to aid those
who are struggling, it is also important to remember to encourage and incentivize self-
sufficiency. This could be done through job training programs, education opportunities, and
other initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and independence.
In conclusion, the allocation of limited resources is a complex issue that requires careful
consideration and a multifaceted approach. While it is important to provide assistance to those in
need, it is also important to ensure that resources are being used effectively and efficiently. By
prioritizing those who are actively seeking to improve their situation, those who are most in
need, and by promoting self-sufficiency and independence, we can work towards a more just and
equitable society.
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References
Menno, D., & Olivier, T. (2020). Financial intermediation, house prices, and the welfare effects
on the U.S. Great Recession. European Economic Review, 129, 103568
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroecorev.2020.103568
Cook, J. B. (2018). The effect of charter competition on unionized revenues and resource
allocations. Journal of Public Economics, 158, 48-62.
Https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpubeco.2017.12.003
