1. Principles of Biomedical Ethics
By: Tom L. Beauchamp and James F. Childress
Presented by: Chantel Bottoms

2. Aims of the Class
To examine aspects that make moral reasoning “more complicated than the outmoded label ‘applied ethics’ suggests” (Beauchamp and Childress 40)
To explore how the various components of ethical theory are found in real life
To present the authors’ proposed coherence theory of justification

3. Discussion Questions
Are there times when a lesser level of complexity, than in the authors’ theory, might be more desirable?
Does accepting reflective equilibrium make problem solving futile? Why is it worth the effort?
People often choose action plans that conflict with rules or policies. Based on that, are rules ever really sufficient? Can one consider themselves free when faced with rules that may conflict with moral values?

4. Works Cited
Beauchamp, Tom L. and James F. Childress. Principles of Biomedical Ethics. New York: Oxford University Press, 2004.
“Karen Ann Quinlan: Famous medical patient.” Who2. July 26, <