Ethical Questions?

**Buzfvar** · 18-10-2004, 02:04 AM

HI!
How should one answer ethical questions e.g. "What are you view on ETHICAL TOPIC HERE". ?

I mean, structure-wise, should one start with your view, and explaining your view, and then explain the other sides' view?

OR should one explain the two "extremes" and the reasons behind them, and then explain your view?

Also, I've reviewed reasons for and against euthanasia, and I cannot decide between the positions. FOr an interview, should I just randomly pick one side, defend it and then show how / what the other side is based upon, so that I don't seem indecisive....

**Dino** · 18-10-2004, 04:11 AM

I recently read somewhere that admission tutors will not base their decision on the position you take on the ethical problem, only on your knowledge of the issue and your ability to take a position on it and argue about it.

Don't know if that was just the university on whose website I read this or if it goes for all of them (it should do, it sounds the reasonable thing to do, provided no extreme ethics are put to the table! :wink: ).

**Miss Elisey Lemon Squeezy** · 18-10-2004, 10:51 PM

i have been told that the best way to answer ethicial questions is to explain both sides of the arguement, and then state your own view, giving reasons of course. But i dont think it really matters what structure you use, as long as you illustrate that you have given thought to the issue, and you understand other peoples perspectives too. Bit like an RE GCSE exam really!

good luck!

**wiseman** · 28-10-2004, 02:54 AM

It's important to quote the duties of the doctors or ethical principles that you are applying to rule out certain issues (eg confidentiality, right of patients to treatment, doctors must not let their own prejudices influence their actions etc). This will help you discard a number of solutions. After that you will have reached the core dilemma and will need to present both sides of the argument.
No need to say what you would do (it's probably wrong anyway), but do say that you would discuss with colleagues

**M Clayton** · 28-10-2004, 03:17 AM

... unless of course the question is phrased in the "what would you do as this patients doctor in situation x?". In that case, to fail to tell them what you'd do is to fail to answer the question.

I think it's also important to show that you're able to stand by your decisions - so don't change your mind just because the interviewer has a different viewpoint to you! If you can justify your choice using reasonable and acceptable ethics, then for goodness sake, have the courage of your convictions!

**zyno** · 28-10-2004, 05:37 AM

Originally Posted by Buzfvar

Also, I've reviewed reasons for and against euthanasia, and I cannot decide between the positions. FOr an interview, should I just randomly pick one side, defend it and then show how / what the other side is based upon, so that I don't seem indecisive....

I read an article about euthanasia... it actually says medical practitioners are divided when it comes to this issue... its "50/50" it says....
so i dont think interviewers will hold you against your views!!!

however, thats why we call it Ethical.....
goodluck to all y'll...

**M Clayton** · 28-10-2004, 12:30 PM

Originally Posted by Nick B

can they ask you about euthanasia or abortion 'cos your religion may dictate your view on the matter.

They certainly can, and they often do.

If your religion dictates your view when you're interviewed, it's likely to do so when you become a doctor - therefore it's important to find out how you think.

**medclassof2010** · 28-10-2004, 02:32 PM

hey pplz :!:

looking at this forum it appears that majority of future medics seem to know what the hell they're on about.

currently im preparing for my interviews and would appreciate it if some1 could let me know of some websites which give arguments for and against current ethical q's like about euthanasia, MMR , cloning etc...

cheerz all

and GOOD LUCK to everyone....im sure the majority of us will get in !!!!!!!!!

**fatcat** · 28-10-2004, 04:04 PM

Do admissions tutors really expect school leavers to have in-depth knowledge about medical ethics? As a grad I expect to be asked about it esp. since I my MA is in Heatlh Care Ethics & Law (doh! I'm asking for it now..!), but I think that although it would be good to have some awareness and perhaps some views on the more major issues, it is unfair to be expected to know so much at the school-leaver stage, especially since an increasing amount of ethics is now being taught as a component of medical courses.