Disscuss the Christian worldview’s proposal for resolving the ethical dilemma

Assignment Brief

Write a 1,000-1,500-word essay in which you analyze ethical thinking and use values-based decision-making to address a case study from the perspective of the Christian worldview. select one case study from the five options listed in the attached “Ethical Dilemmas” document.

After an appropriate introductory paragraph with a thesis statement in which you name the scenario you are choosing, address each of the following six sections with at least one paragraph each. Write at least one paragraph for each component using the underlined titles for a subheading.

Ethical Dilemma

Briefly describe the ethical dilemma in your own words, including: 

1. what in the scenario makes it difficult to make an ethical decision and
2. at least two options for resolving the scenario, providing a brief overview of what sort of ethical decisions each option might make.

Core Beliefs:

• What beliefs about God and humanity from the Christian worldview are relevant to the scenario?
• How might these core worldview commitments of Christians influence one’s decision-making with regard to this scenario?

Resolution:

• Describe the Christian worldview’s proposal for resolving the ethical dilemma. How should the person in the scenario act according to the Christian worldview?
• What is the best course of action for a Christian? (Note: The resolution should be consistent with Christian worldview commitments.)

Evaluation:

• What might be the unintended consequences and perceived benefits of the resolution proposed by the Christian worldview?

Comparison:

• How does the Christian worldview resolution compare to how another worldview might resolve the dilemma?
• Choose a specific contrasting worldview, such as atheism, pantheism, or scientism.

Conclusion:

• Synthesize the main points, pulling the ideas of the paper together.
• References
• Use and cite two course resources (textbook, overviews, and the Bible), and at least two scholarly sources from the GCU Library that address the issue from opposing sides. Refer to the directions on “Navigating the GCU Library for CWV Benchmark Research” and the “Example Ethical Dilemma Essay.”

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the GCU Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. Review the GCU Template for formatting and utilize the attached “Ethical Dilemmas Essay Template” to complete the benchmark assignment.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Sample Answer

The Christian Worldview and the Ethical Dilemma of Medical Assistance in Dying

Introduction

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) presents a profound ethical dilemma that raises questions about life, death, dignity, and morality. In many societies, particularly where MAID is legal, healthcare professionals and families often face difficult decisions about whether to assist terminally ill patients in ending their lives. This essay explores this dilemma from the perspective of the Christian worldview, which is grounded in the belief in the sanctity of human life and divine sovereignty. The purpose of this essay is to analyse the ethical problem, explore possible options, and evaluate how core Christian beliefs inform the decision-making process in this scenario.

Ethical Dilemma

In this scenario, a terminally ill patient experiencing severe pain and diminished quality of life requests Medical Assistance in Dying. The healthcare provider, who may personally oppose MAID, must decide whether to assist the patient, refer them to someone who will, or refuse involvement. The difficulty arises because the situation pits compassion for the patient`s suffering against respect for the sanctity of life.

Two possible options emerge:

1. Provide or facilitate MAID, respecting the patient`s autonomy and relieving their suffering. This decision values the patient`s choice and prioritises their perceived dignity in dying.

2. Refuse to assist, based on moral or religious beliefs that see life as sacred and only God having the authority to end it. This could prolong the patient’s suffering but remain consistent with the belief in the inviolability of life.

The ethical conflict involves balancing autonomy with moral duty and professional obligations with personal beliefs.

Core Beliefs

From a Christian worldview, several core beliefs are relevant. First, Christians believe that human life is sacred because it is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Life is a gift from God, and only God has the right to give or take it (Job 1:21).

Second, Christians view suffering as part of the human condition, which may have spiritual purpose. The New Testament teaches that suffering can lead to perseverance and character (Romans 5:3–5). While Christians are called to alleviate suffering, they do not believe that it justifies intentionally ending a life.

These beliefs influence decision-making by emphasising the value of preserving life, trusting in God`s plan, and seeking alternatives that provide compassionate care without hastening death. Christians are guided by the commandment, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13), which would generally be understood to apply to euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Resolution

According to the Christian worldview, the appropriate course of action is to refuse to participate in MAID and instead provide palliative care to manage pain and offer emotional, spiritual, and physical support. The Christian response involves compassionate care without compromising the belief in the sanctity of life.

A Christian healthcare provider may advocate for hospice care or other forms of support that uphold the dignity of the patient while remaining faithful to God’s authority over life and death. Referring the patient to another practitioner for MAID may also be morally problematic, as it could be seen as complicity in an act that contradicts Christian ethics. The Christian resolution, therefore, prioritises life preservation, trust in God’s sovereignty, and support for the patient’s suffering through non-lethal means.

Evaluation

The Christian resolution could have several benefits. It respects the provider’s moral integrity and offers the patient supportive care without violating the sanctity of life. It may also provide the patient with spiritual comfort and the opportunity to reconcile with family, God, or their own beliefs before natural death.

However, unintended consequences may include prolonged suffering for the patient and possible legal or professional challenges for the provider in jurisdictions where MAID is legal and expected. The patient or family might feel that their autonomy is being denied, leading to conflict or distress.

The resolution may also raise public debate about the role of religious beliefs in healthcare decisions, especially when the patient does not share those beliefs.

Continued...