Yvette Balata
2676719
Group 19
Tutor: Atul Suri
SSA Week 6. (Lectures 11 & 12)
a. Explain the concept of informed consent
Informed consent is a term used in the medical setting and it refers to the process through which a
patient is thoroughly briefed on a medical procedure. This allows the person to be aware of all im-
plications, including possible risks, and thus, make an informed decision whether on not to give the
consent to the discussed treatment (Nunez, 2019). This process requires some fundamental compo-
nents. The patient needs to be capable of making a voluntary decision and to be able to understand
the information offered. That is, they are considered to be autonomous and possessing a rational
state of mind (Kraemer, 2013).
b. Why does Deep Brain Stimulation cause dilemma, according to Kraemer?
Deep brain stimulation consists of a brain pacemaker which stimulates certain brain areas through
electric pulses. This treatment helps relieving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease allowing patien-
ts to regain their lost autonomy and bodily well-being. However, one of the side effects that some of
them experience is of psychosocial nature which cause them to either feel closer to their true self —
more authentic — or alienated (Kraemer, 2013). Thus, a philosophical and ethical dilemma arises
when a decision needs to be taken between autonomy and authenticity. That is, some patients would
rather sacrifice their autonomy in favor of a feeling of authenticity, whereas others prefer the oppo-
site. To answer this ethical question, the safety of others and the patients’ themselves ought to be
valued first. Feelings of authenticity deserve respect and attention, and when possible, a patient
2676719
Group 19
Tutor: Atul Suri
SSA Week 6. (Lectures 11 & 12)
a. Explain the concept of informed consent
Informed consent is a term used in the medical setting and it refers to the process through which a
patient is thoroughly briefed on a medical procedure. This allows the person to be aware of all im-
plications, including possible risks, and thus, make an informed decision whether on not to give the
consent to the discussed treatment (Nunez, 2019). This process requires some fundamental compo-
nents. The patient needs to be capable of making a voluntary decision and to be able to understand
the information offered. That is, they are considered to be autonomous and possessing a rational
state of mind (Kraemer, 2013).
b. Why does Deep Brain Stimulation cause dilemma, according to Kraemer?
Deep brain stimulation consists of a brain pacemaker which stimulates certain brain areas through
electric pulses. This treatment helps relieving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease allowing patien-
ts to regain their lost autonomy and bodily well-being. However, one of the side effects that some of
them experience is of psychosocial nature which cause them to either feel closer to their true self —
more authentic — or alienated (Kraemer, 2013). Thus, a philosophical and ethical dilemma arises
when a decision needs to be taken between autonomy and authenticity. That is, some patients would
rather sacrifice their autonomy in favor of a feeling of authenticity, whereas others prefer the oppo-
site. To answer this ethical question, the safety of others and the patients’ themselves ought to be
valued first. Feelings of authenticity deserve respect and attention, and when possible, a patient
