NRS 413V Grand Canyon University – Christian Perspectives on the Moral Status of a Fetus: A Case Study Analysis

QUESTION

Case Study: Fetal Abnormality

Jessica is a 30-year-old immigrant from Mexico City. She and her husband Marco have been in the United States for the last three years and have finally earned enough money to move out of their Aunt Maria’s home and into an apartment of their own. They are both hard workers. Jessica works 50 hours a week at a local restaurant and Marco has been contracting side jobs in construction. Six months before their move to an apartment, Jessica finds out she is pregnant.

Four months later, Jessica and Marco arrive at the county hospital, a large, public, nonteaching hospital. A preliminary ultrasound indicates a possible abnormality with the fetus. Further scans are conducted, and it is determined that the fetus has a rare condition in which it has not developed any arms and will not likely develop them. There is also a 25% chance that the fetus may have Down syndrome.

Dr. Wilson, the primary attending physician, is seeing Jessica for the first time, since she and Marco did not receive earlier prenatal care over concerns about finances. Marco insists that Dr. Wilson refrain from telling Jessica the scan results, assuring him that he will tell his wife himself when she is emotionally ready for the news. While Marco and Dr. Wilson are talking in another room, Aunt Maria walks into the room with a distressed look on her face. She can tell that something is wrong and inquires of Dr. Wilson. After hearing of the diagnosis, she walks out of the room wailing loudly and praying aloud.

Marco and Dr. Wilson continue their discussion, and Dr. Wilson insists that he has an obligation to Jessica as his patient and that she has a right to know the diagnosis of the fetus. He furthermore is intent on discussing all relevant factors and options regarding the next step, including abortion. Marco insists on taking some time to think of how to break the news to Jessica, but Dr. Wilson, frustrated with the direction of the conversation, informs the husband that such a choice is not his to make. Dr. Wilson proceeds back across the hall, where he walks in on Aunt Maria awkwardly praying with Jessica and phoning the priest. At that point, Dr. Wilson gently but briefly informs Jessica of the diagnosis and lays out the option for abortion as a responsible medical alternative, given the quality of life such a child would have. Jessica looks at him and struggles to hold back her tears.

Jessica is torn between her hopes of a better socioeconomic position and increased independence, along with her conviction that all life is sacred. Marco will support Jessica in whatever decision she makes but is finding it difficult not to view the pregnancy and the prospects of a disabled child as a burden and a barrier to their economic security and plans. Dr. Wilson lays out all of the options but clearly makes his view known that abortion is “scientifically” and medically a wise choice in this situation. Aunt Maria pleads with Jessica to follow through with the pregnancy and allow what “God intends” to take place and urges Jessica to think of her responsibility as a mother.

Based on “Case Study: Fetal Abnormality” and the required topic Resources, answers the following questions:

1. What is the Christian view of the nature of human persons, and which theory of moral status is it compatible with? How is this related to the intrinsic human value and dignity?
2. Which theory or theories are being used by Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson to determine the moral status of the fetus? What from the case study specifically leads you to believe that they hold the theory you selected?
3. How does the theory determine or influence each of their recommendations for action?
4. What theory do you agree with? Why? How would that theory determine or influence the recommendation for action?

Remember to support your responses with the topic Resources.

ANSWER

Christian Perspectives on the Moral Status of a Fetus: A Case Study Analysis

Introduction

The case study of Jessica, Marco, Aunt Maria, and Dr. Wilson presents a complex ethical dilemma surrounding the diagnosis of a fetal abnormality. To analyze their differing views on the moral status of the fetus, it is essential to consider the Christian perspective on the nature of human persons and the theories of moral status compatible with it. This essay explores the Christian view of human nature, examines the theories used by the characters to determine the moral status of the fetus, and discusses the influence of these theories on their recommendations for action.

Christian View of Human Persons and Moral Status

From a Christian perspective, human beings are created in the image of God, possessing intrinsic value and dignity. They believe that each individual, from conception to natural death, is endowed with a unique worth and purpose. This view is compatible with the theory of moral status known as “sanctity of life,” which affirms the inherent value and dignity of every human being, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

Theories of Moral Status in the Case Study

 Jessica: Jessica’s struggle between her hopes for a better socioeconomic position and her conviction that all life is sacred suggests that she holds a “sanctity of life” perspective. She views the fetus as having intrinsic human value and dignity, regardless of its disabilities.

 Marco: Marco sees the pregnancy and the prospect of a disabled child as a burden and a barrier to their economic security and plans. His focus on the practical implications indicates a utilitarian perspective. He prioritizes the maximization of overall happiness and well-being, which may lead him to consider abortion as an option.

 Aunt Maria: Aunt Maria’s plea for Jessica to follow through with the pregnancy aligns with a “sanctity of life” perspective. She believes in God’s intention and emphasizes Jessica’s responsibility as a mother to protect and nurture the life growing within her.

 Dr. Wilson: Dr. Wilson’s view that abortion is a “scientifically” and medically wise choice suggests a consequentialist perspective. He weighs the quality of life of the potential child and may prioritize minimizing suffering and maximizing overall well-being.

Influence of Theories on Recommendations for Action

The theories of moral status held by each character influence their recommendations for action:

 Jessica: Her belief in the sanctity of life may lead her to choose to continue the pregnancy, embracing the moral responsibility to protect and care for the life entrusted to her, regardless of the challenges it may bring.

Marco: A utilitarian perspective may lead Marco to consider abortion as a means to improve their socioeconomic position and overall happiness. He may prioritize the practical implications of raising a disabled child.

 Aunt Maria: Her adherence to the sanctity of life theory prompts Aunt Maria to encourage Jessica to continue the pregnancy, trusting in God’s plan and emphasizing the intrinsic value of every human life.

Dr. Wilson: Dr. Wilson’s consequentialist perspective may guide his recommendation for abortion, as he assesses the potential child’s quality of life and believes that minimizing suffering would be the most ethical course of action.

Preferred Theory and Its Influence on Recommendations

Personally, I align with the “sanctity of life” theory due to its affirmation of the inherent value and dignity of every human being. This theory acknowledges the sacredness of life, irrespective of disabilities. As a result, my recommendation would be for Jessica to continue the pregnancy, recognizing the profound worth of the fetus and the moral responsibility to protect and nurture its life.

Conclusion

The case study highlights the diverse perspectives on the moral status of the fetus and the subsequent recommendations for action. The Christian view of human nature, grounded in the belief in the intrinsic value and dignity of every individual, provides a foundation for the sanctity of life theory. Understanding the theories held by different individuals involved in ethically complex situations can aid in fostering compassionate dialogue and ethical decision-making. Ultimately, the recognition of the intrinsic human value and dignity can guide us towards promoting the well-being and flourishing of all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

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