Case study and Moral status

Based on “Case Study: Fetal Abnormality” and other required topic study materials, write a 750-1,000-word reflection that 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 study materials.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric.

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for assistance.

Rubric

Explanation of the Christian view of the nature of human persons and the theory of moral status that it is compatible is clear, thorough, and explained with a deep understanding of the connection between them. Explanation is supported by topic study materials. 30%

The theory or theories that are used by each person to determine the moral status of the fetus is explained clearly and draws insightful relevant conclusions. Rationale for choices made is clearly supported by topic study materials and case study examples. 15%

Explanation of how the theory determines or influences each of their recommendations for action is clear, insightful, and demonstrates a deep understanding of the theory and its impact on recommendation for action. Explanation is supported by topic study materials. 15%

Evaluation of which theory is preferable within personal practice along with how that theory would influence personal recommendations for action is clear, relevant, and insightful. 10%

Thesis is comprehensive and contains the essence of the paper. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.

Clear and convincing argument presents a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.

Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.

All format elements are correct.

Sources are completely and correctly documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, and format is free of error.

Here is a link to the Khan video on Moral Status. It will help explain the five theories discussed in the lecture: 

https://www.khanacademy.org/partner-content/wi-phi/wiphi-value-theory/wiphi-ethics/v/moral-status  

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Introduction

The Case Study: Fetal Abnormality presents a complex moral and ethical dilemma centered on the value and dignity of human life. The situation challenges the characters—Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson—to make a difficult decision regarding a fetus diagnosed with a severe congenital condition. From a Christian worldview, every human being possesses intrinsic worth and dignity, rooted in the belief that all people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This belief affirms that moral status is inherent and not dependent on physical ability, development, or social contribution. Consequently, the Christian perspective aligns most closely with the theory of intrinsic value, which asserts that human life holds moral significance from conception to natural death.

Within the context of this case, each individual applies different moral theories—such as utilitarianism, relativism, and deontological ethics—to justify their reasoning about the fetus’s moral status and the appropriate course of action. Their perspectives reflect broader societal tensions between compassion, autonomy, and moral duty. This reflection will explore how each character’s worldview and chosen moral theory influence their ethical reasoning, examine the Christian understanding of human personhood and intrinsic dignity, and discuss which moral framework offers the most ethically consistent guidance for this sensitive issue.

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