PHI-413V Topic 3 DQ 1

The four principles of biomedical ethics, especially in the context of bioethics in the United States, have often been critiqued for raising the principle of autonomy to the highest place, such that it trumps all other principles or values. Based on your worldview, how do you rank the importance of each of the four principles in order to protect the health and safety of diverse populations?

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to the “Discussion Question Rubric” and “Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education
This assignment aligns with AACN Core Competencies: 3.1

Solution

From a Christian worldview, all human beings are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), which means each person has intrinsic dignity and value. Therefore, when ranking the four principles of biomedical ethics—autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice—the order of importance may reflect a holistic approach that prioritizes human dignity, compassion, and community well-being.

1. Beneficence takes the highest place. Acting for the patient’s good reflects the Christian call to love and serve others (Matthew 22:39). Healthcare providers must promote the well-being of individuals and communities, especially the vulnerable.

2. Non-maleficence (“do no harm”) comes next. This principle ensures that healthcare interventions do not cause unnecessary suffering or injury. It aligns with the biblical call to protect and preserve life (Proverbs 31:8-9).

3. Justice follows, emphasizing fairness and equity in access to healthcare resources. A Christian perspective values caring for the marginalized (Isaiah 1:17), advocating for policies that protect the underserved and promote health equity across diverse populations.

4. Autonomy is still important but ranked fourth. While individual freedom and choice are valuable, a Christian ethic recognizes that community, relational responsibilities, and moral truth should sometimes guide decisions over absolute individual autonomy (Kilner, 2015). For example, in public health situations such as vaccine mandates, limiting autonomy may be ethically justified to protect the health of others.

In conclusion, while autonomy is crucial in respecting human agency, the Christian worldview leans more toward beneficence, justice, and communal care when promoting health and safety for diverse populations.

References

Kilner, J. F. (2015). Why people matter: A Christian engagement with rival views of human significance. Baker Academic.

Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of biomedical ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.

The Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Biblica.

 

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