Christian View and Theory of Moral Status
Christian View of the Nature of Human Persons
Christians have a unique view of human nature and their existence. They believe that everyone is directly linked to the power and will of God, who created and endowed them with authority to govern the world. What makes them unique is that they were created in the image of God and given the power to resemble the creator (Hasel, 2022). This affords them inherent worth and dignity, shared equally among all persons.
Compatible Theory of Moral Status
This belief concurs with the theory of equal moral status. According to this idea, no one is above another, as people have the same moral worth (Blumenfeld, 2022). It emphasizes equal treatment of everyone regardless of their unique characteristics. The theory also advocates for a society that values and respects every individual’s inherent dignity and worth, promoting fairness and justice for all. Therefore, factors such as race, socioeconomic status, gender, or religion are seen as harmful practices that undermine equality.
Theory Relation to the Intrinsic Human Value and Dignity
Intrinsic human value and dignity entail the belief that all humans are equal. It is based on the principle that everyone is entitled to be human and possesses the capacity to think and reason. This aligns with the Christian view of persons and equal moral theory, which recognizes the worth and value of every individual. With this recognition of intrinsic human value and dignity, which stems from the common creator of humans, Christians can promote social justice and equality.
Characters’ Theoretical Perspectives on Moral Status in the Case Study
Case Summary
Jessica, a 30-year-old woman who recently immigrated, has just settled into a new apartment with her husband, Marco, after years of effort and financial sacrifice. During her pregnancy, medical imaging shows that the baby is developing without arms and may have a 25% likelihood of Down syndrome. At the hospital, Marco attempts to manage how and when Jessica receives the news.
However, Dr. Wilson maintains that she is entitled to full disclosure and explains the diagnosis along with possible choices, including termination of the pregnancy. Jessica finds herself torn between her conviction that life is sacred and the realistic challenges of caring for a child with significant disabilities. At the same time, Marco is anxious about their economic situation, and Aunt Maria encourages Jessica to carry the pregnancy to term.
Theories
The case study presents a viable way to view different perspectives on the equal moral status of the fetus and how Christians can respond to such situations. The characters in the study, Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson, hold different theories to determine the fetus’s moral status. Jessica’s case illustrates a perspective on the theory of potentiality. This idea is that anything can change and be something else (Blumenfeld, 2022).
Marco’s and Dr. Wilson’s viewpoints reflect utilitarianism and consequentialism, which judge actions based on their outcomes. Something is only good if its benefits outweigh the disadvantages (Kay, 2018). Maria’s case emphasizes the theory of natural law. This concept holds that people have deeply ingrained values that guide their behavior and decisions (Himma, n.d.). This is why Maria insists that Jessica consider her mother’s responsibilities.
Instances Justifying Presented Theories
There are various instances and arguments in the case that suggest each character embodies the values described above. In this case, Jessica’s viewpoints are influenced by the theory of potentiality for many reasons. She emphasizes that all lives are sacred and should be treated as unique and valuable. Her struggles to achieve a better life, earn respect, and improve her socioeconomic status convince the reader that she is deeply concerned with change and believes it is possible to effect it.
Marco indicates that utilitarianism and consequentialism are linked to his concerns about the economic burden and barriers to their plans resulting from the pregnancy. Maria also seeks God’s guidance, highlighting her concerns about her Christian values and her belief in natural law. She is also concerned about the responsibilities of motherhood, reflective of her internal values. On the other hand, Dr. Wilson believes that the actions one undertakes have potential consequences, and one should focus only on what will lead to the greater good. This is shown in his recommendation of abortion as he weighs the possible quality of life the baby will have.
Influence of Theories on Recommendations for Action
The influence of each theory on a recommendation for action for each character differs. The idea of potentiality, as seen through Jessica’s perspective, will motivate her to keep the pregnancy, as she believes nothing is impossible to achieve. She will value the fetus’s intrinsic worth and dignity.
Marco’s and Dr. Wilson’s viewpoints will help them analyze the potential outcomes of their decisions to recommend the most beneficial ones. For instance, Marco will focus on what will enhance overall well-being and what is best for the family before making a decision. At the same time, Dr. Wilson will analyze the baby’s quality of life after birth, considering whether it will be worth it. Maria, on the other hand, will fight to keep the pregnancy. She believes God’s will guides humans, and that one should not go against their beliefs, even in challenging situations.
Personal Perspective
Theoretical Perspective
While all the characters offer unique perspectives on the case, I prefer the theory of equal moral status. This theory is crucial as it gives voice to those who are less likely to defend themselves. It prioritizes equal treatment, justice, and respect for everyone, regardless of ability, which is critical given the need for inclusivity (Floris, 2019). As such, upholding this theory impacts societal well-being, promoting an inclusive and concerned environment for everyone.
Influence on Recommendation for Action
Recommending the theory of equal moral status is worth considering in this case. It recognizes everyone as similar and should be regarded as praiseworthy. In this case, it will offer an insightful view of the fetus’s value and worth, rather than basing decisions on other factors that undermine it (Floris, 2019). In this regard, the theory will emphasize the sanctity of life and the need to protect and care for a vulnerable fetus. Whether to keep or abort the baby will be solved as the theory recognizes the baby as a human worth respecting. Alternative strategies to improve their lives will be recommended, prompting the parents to improve their situation and explore additional resources to prepare for the baby.
References
Blumenfeld, J. (2022). The role of potentiality in Aristotle’s ethics. Journal of Human Values, 28(2), 93–102.
Floris, G. (2019). On the basis of moral equality: A rejection of the relation-first approach. Ethical Theory and Moral Practice, 22(1), 237–250.
Hasel, F. M. (2022). The nature of the human being in Christian theology. Perspective Digest.
Himma, K. E. (n.d.). Natural law. IEP.
Kay, C. D. (2018). Utilitarianism. Global Encyclopedia of Public Administration, Public Policy, and Governance, 6086–6091.
