PHI 413 Case Study on Moral Status-2-2./ Already Graded A+

Case Study on Moral Status Grand Canyon University PHI 413V Ethical and Spiritual Decision Making in Health Care January 16, 2020 Case Study: Fetal Abnormality The following case study is about a young, hardworking, couple in their 30s that found out they were 4 months pregnant 6 months prior to moving into their own apartment. During the healthcare visit, after having an ultrasound and other diagnostics completed, the young couple, Jessica and Marco, are made aware the fetus has a rare condition and has not developed arms. In addition to the rare condition, there is a 25% chance the fetus could have Down’s Syndrome (Grand Canyon University, 2020). The fetal abnormality presents an ethical and moral decision for all members that are involved. The concepts of the Christian view of human persons, which moral status theory this case is compatible with, and how it relates to the innate human value and dignity of the unborn baby will be discussed in this paper. The theories used within this case study, as well as the reasoning behind their beliefs, moral status, and influenced actions will be discussed to have a better understanding of each one’s viewpoint. Christian View of Human Persons and Moral Status Theory Prenatal screening alone can be controversial for Christians due to their belief in God’s infinite goodness (Best, 2018). As Christians, the nature of human persons is described as Imago Dei, the image of God. The theory based on human properties, theory based on cognitive properties, theory based on moral agency, theory based on sentience, and theory based on relationships are the five primary theories based on moral status (White, 2020). The moral status theory that is most compatible with the Christian worldview is the theory based on human properties because it believes all human beings have moral status regardless of functionality or momentary values. This means every being created by God, born and unborn, should be treated with honor and dignity. Every human being has intrinsic worth and is not dependent on their extrinsic worth. Intrinsic value and dignity mean that the thought lies within the heart of the soul and what you believe is to be worthy of respect.