Running head: FINAL PAPER 1
Final Paper: Protocol for Decision Making
Angela Furman
Liberty University
FINAL PAPER 2
Final Paper: Protocol for Decision Making
Part I: Introduction
Ever since the beginning of creation of man by God all have desired health and
prosperity. For this very reason the drive of individuals to seek advancements within the
medical field continually occur. Rather than a private venture transformations in healthcare
certainly has become more open and considered to be for the greater good of the society of
which it is occurring. The largest battle we all have is that of the health of our people. Too many
are suffering with currently incurable cancers and diseases. Ethical concerns in researching
these healthcare related issues although valid often side with the vast majority on risk verses
benefit. ““Pioneering spirit should continue, not to conquer the planet or space … but rather to
improve the quality of life”-Bertand Piccard” (Maity, Dowarha, & Muagal, 2015, p. 239).
Although some may disagree on the methods by which scientist, physicians, and other medical
researchers are determining treatments, ultimately the gift of survival or curing is key for
humans as a whole.
Thesis Statement
An individual’s standards of behavior or moral absolutes are that of which they feel is ethically
and morally acceptable. These absolutes determine what the ethical belief is and what the moral
standard by which we will be judged by God regardless of the rational. Although the action
could be supported by favorable rational of helping others, it does not automatically deem the
action ethical satisfactory in a Christian worldview. Within this paper discussion on moral
absolutes in bioethics, processes by which step by step decision making occurs in healthcare
related issues, and how to be in opposition to views of one’s moral standings.
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Part II- Key Absolutes
Bioethics needs key moral absolutes. Although these absolutes can vary widely
dependant on the individual’s cultural background and personal life experiences there must be a
set of moral absolutes. “Bioethical challenges have to do with life and health (“bio”), and what
one does about them should flow from wise discernment about what is good and right
(“ethics”)” (Kilner, 2011, p. 11). The bases of moral absolutes are meant to serve as the optimum
achievable outcome for both patient and caregiver.
“Moral Absolutism is the ethical belief that there are absolute standards against which
moral questions can be judged, and that certain actions are right or wrong, regardless of
the context of the act” (Philosophy Basics, 2008, para. 1) For Christians such as the belief of
Jesus as our holy savior; “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through me” (John 14:6, New International Version (NIV)). The Bible as the written
word of God is another absolute believed by Christians. The Ten Commandments also serve as
moral absolutes. Some of those commandments can directly correlate with bioethical behavior.
“You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13, NIV) and “You shall not give false testimony against
your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16. NIV), particularly associated to bioethical practices of medical
research of use of animals, children, and humans in clinical trials, organ donation, euthanasia,
and assisted suicide, refusal of medical care, in vitro fertilization, and placebo trials for human
subjects.
Ethical theory’s to consider are offered by our Munson text. They include utilitarianism,
Kant’s categorical imperative, Ross’s ethics, Rawls’s theory of justice, and natural law ethics and
moral theology. (Munson & Lague, 2012) These theories serve as the basis of modern day theory
for ethical decisions especially in bioethical subject matter. Often there will be times that one’s
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ethical beliefs will be called into question given the controversial subject matter involved in
bioethical cases. When that time appears one must rely on their moral absolutes and ethical
beliefs to make the most appropriate decision. Depending on one’s key moral absolutes will
permit the correct resolution moving forward.
Part III – Strategy for Decision Making
There are several ways one can come to a fair decision dependent upon the subject
matter. A decision on topics that threaten or challenge one’s moral or ethical absolutes is a much
more difficult task. When faced with this difficult task one must consider a way to determine a
strategy to ensure the correct choice is chosen.
First utilization of communication is essential to strategically coming to the proper
decision. Communication is by far the most important step in decision making as it involves so
many factors. From utilization of God’s word the Bible to communicating to God thru prayer,
is one example to use under the step of communication. “For the word of God is living and
active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints
and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12, NIV).
Other forms of communication to consider are that of outside resources such as family, friends,
wise counsel, research, and even medical professionals. In fact this first step allows guidance of
the following steps.
The second step is that of conviction. Conviction of our belief in the Holy Spirit, in
the ideals God set forth for us to follow. His word and desire for His perfect will for humans.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in
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righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16, NIV). Following what is known to be righteous by God and
taking consideration of one’s conviction is essential to the decision making process.
Counsel of other Christians is another step to consider since the Bible simply states “For
lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers” (Proverbs 11:14,
NIV). God wants Christians to work together, seek assistance in difficult tasks; this includes that
of decision that may challenge our moral absolutes. Working with others of the same belief may
allow alternative options to be considered.
Circumstance should be considered when making decisions involving moral and ethical
absolutes. God is all knowing, all present, and all powerful! Is there a point of which God is not
there, NO! Every situation one may encounter is being overseen by God. This includes that of
complex decision making and the process by which one makes a choice. To keep in mind that
any given situation is not by mere chance but rather a circumstance that God is overseeing will
help guide ones difficult decision. “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks
intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets
what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres,
being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing” (James 1:22-
25, NIV).
Freewill is a gift from God to make decisions on our own. This freewill comes with
common sense. Utilization of common sense is crucial in making appropriate choices when faced
with questions that may cause uncertainty. Common sense can go a long way to helping reach
that difficult decision. “If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is
from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority” (John 7:17, NIV).
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When faced with difficult moral or ethical decision utilization of scripture is always a
good place to turn. Many situations within the Bible can be correlated with one specific problem.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your
ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV). The holy
Bible is God’s word and will for us. To deny its direction and answers would be to go against
God himself. “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that
through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope”
(Romans 15:4, NIV).
Exploration of options is another step that may be essential to come to a final conclusion.
Especially within the realm of healthcare decisions there are so many options one can find.
Seeking the one that best suits the situation and following your moral absolutes is key to the
decision making process by a Christian. Sometimes this exploration requires the use of trial and
error to be successful. Although God has a will and desire for our path he also provided freewill.
This gift from him allows us to explore to determine the best choice for us, even if it is not the
best choice at that time, the path is one he wishes us to take. “Give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV).
Seek out expert opinion for whatever dilemma you are facing. For example for healthcare
related issues seek out the opinion of a physician or maybe even several physicians to ensure you
are aware of all the options. Although God is number one and His word is the word of the land,
experts within the field are there to help guide as well. That is their will set forth by God himself.
Following these steps and advice will certain make difficult decisions easier. Although
the answer may not be clear God has a path He wants you to take. Sometimes it just takes a bit
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longer for one to find that path. Everything you do, do with God in your heart and you cannot be
steered array.
Part IV- Non-Biblical Decision Making Strategy
Not all situations in life are going to have biblical implications apparent. These situations
will call for a more in depth evaluation prior to forming a decision. Utilizing the wisdom you
have already obtained. Another step to utilize is seeking outside reference by experts or those
who have already been through this exact process for the exact reason. Trust in oneself to know
the choice you make will be the right choice. Utilization of similar traits you would use with
ideas of God in mind. Such attributes are communication, common sense, obtaining resources,
educating yourself, and trusting in you!
Utilization of the ethical theories is another avenue to research when debating on issues
that are not readily available or correlate with the works in the Bible. Although many theories
have a strong foundation in faith, they allow for an outside perspective.
A step by step process can be utilized to make decisions that are not directly evident with
God words. First one must identify the issue at hand, be sure of the problem. Next, understand
where everyone’s interest lies. Is the interest selfish in nature or are they for the good of the
most people? List and evaluation options in the problem at hand, do not get sidelined by others
opinions or problems that do not correlate with the issue being discussed. Select the solution that
best suits your situation. Set forth agreements on the solution selected of how to determine the
success it has allowed or not allowed. If the solution does not work go to step one and repeat
until appropriate solution is obtained. (Hicks, n.d.) Throughout this process do not fear or shy
away from the process. It may be scary to determine a solution without the word of God but
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sometimes that is His plan! “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we
do not see” (Hebrews 11:1, NIV).
Part V- Personal Absolutes
As an emergency room registered nurse for seven years I have seen a thing or two. My
views on controversial situations may in themselves be quite controversial. It not that I want to
be someone considered liberal or divisive, but rather someone who wants what is best for my
patients, their loved ones, even my loved ones given a similar situation. I understand that my
faith in God has provided greatly for me thus far and I feel that his choice to provide me with
freewill will continue to allow the decisions that best suite my personal absolutes. “No one takes
it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have
authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father” (John 10:18, NIV).
I stand by the principle of beneficence. Do no harm. However when it comes to
bioethical controversial issues I look at the greater picture, what process would serve the greater
good. The use of animals for both medical research as well as xenotransplant processes. I have
been fortunate enough to work with patients who have received a better quality of life as well as
life itself by receiving animal parts, most specifically pig parts for cardiac related issues. God
intended on animals to serve humans and provide for survival so why should the utilization of
their parts be considered unethical. If one can simply raise animals to slaughter for food, one can
also utilize their parts to breathe life.
Another absolute I carry is that of trusting in God to direct my path. The use of
biomedical research to help those affected by infertility is something I greatly support. God
allows freewill, research to bring happiness to one’s life by way of allowing her to conceive is
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simply amazing and what I consider to be God’s work. Regardless of how one conceives God
still has the ultimate power to allow or not allow fertility. “And God blessed Noah and his sons
and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” (Genesis 9:1, NIV).
Seeing people at the end of their life and praying with loved ones has allowed some great
insight to the meaning behind a peaceful death. Although I do not support euthanasia or
physician assisted suicide, I can see why some would opt for the opportunity to do so. I have
witnessed far too many people dying in pain and suffering. No amount of medication,
positioning, or pray can comfort these people. It is even harder on the relatives or friends
witnessing their loved one suffer. They are the ones who must live with the image of their loved
one suffering. I have prayed frequently with both patients and families during this most difficult
time. My absolute is that God will not allow more than one can endure. “Do not be anxious
about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests
be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard
your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is
honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if
there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you
have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace
will be with you” (Philippians 4:6-9, NIV). Ultimately Gods will for us is fact. His power and
strength he will provide to us in our most vulnerable moments.
Personal absolutes are certainly dependent upon an individual’s experiences in life. Same
may disagree on my choices, feelings, and thoughts on controversial subject matter but as long as
I make my decisions with God in my heart I am righteous in my decisions. If an employer or
another official asked me to go against my personal absolutes I would not oblige them. Rather I
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would continue to support my belief even more strongly. No one person should be able to
change ones beliefs, especially ones absolutes. Educating that individual who was trying to
change my opinion would be one option rather than surrender to another’s belief. Look at our
savior the Lord Jesus Christ. His will to remain faithful to God is a prime example of how one
should hold their absolutes. Jesus was tortured for standing up for his beliefs. No amount of pain
or suffering caused him to change his views. “Then you will prosper if you are careful to observe
the statutes and the rules that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous.
Fear not; do not be dismayed” (1 Chronicles 22:13, NIV). God is my rock and his gift of freewill
and choice allows me to make decisions that are right for me. Trust in HIM and all will be cared
for! “And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” (Matthew 21:22,
NIV).
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References
Hicks, T. (n.d.). Seven Steps for Effective Problem Solving in the Workplace. Retrieved from
http://www.mediate.com/articles/thicks.cfm
Kilner, J. F. (2011). Why the church needs bioethics: A guide to wise engagement within life’s
challenges. . Zondervan, Grand Rapids, MI.: ZONDERVAN .
Maity, H., Dowarha, D., & Muagal, P. P. (2015). Public health beyond the
millennium development goals []. Indian Journal of Public Health , 59(3),
239-241. http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/0019-557X.164673
Munson, R., & Lague, I. (2012). Intervention and reflection: Basic issues in bioethics (10 ed.).
Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
Philosophy Basics. (2008). http://www.philosophybasics.com/branch_moral_absolutism.html
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FINAL PAPER RUBRIC
Criteria Points
Possible
Points Earned & Comments
from Instructor
PART I- The paper “opens” with a concise paragraph
summarizing the student’s essay.
10
PART II- Identify key absolutes critical for healthy, biblical
decision making.
40
PART III- Delineate a clear strategy or methodology one could
employ in the decision making process.
50
PART IV- Identify what decision making strategy one could
employ if they had to make a decision but a clear answer/solution
was NOT biblically evident by commandment, guideline or
inference.
40
PART V- If compelled by a directive (e.g. by an employer,
government official, etc.) that was not in accordance with
YOUR "absolutes", describe what action(s) YOU are prepared to
implement to uphold your personal absolutes.
20
Spelling, Grammar, Flow & Clarity 20
Formatting (AMA or APA), length, and assignment requirements
sufficiently met.
10
This rubric is attached to the bottom of your Mid-Term Exam. 10
TOTAL
SCORE
200
