Abstract This paper examines how issues, such as self-determination, boundaries including personal and client-self-disclosure, potential psychopathology of the social worker and/or the patient, and cultural incompetence can blur the boundaries that create ethical dilemmas. It discusses ethical dilemmas that can and do occur in social work practice and offers an example flow-chart that social workers may adopt and adapt to best suit their individual clinical practice and settings.
Outline
Introduction
Self-Determination
Boundaries
Social Work Self-Disclosure
Cultural Factors
Develop A Plan
From the Paper "Establishing and maintaining boundaries is a complex process for all health care providers. One of the basic principles in social work practice is to establish and to maintain professional, helpful and therapeutic boundaries. Although, boundaries are complex and ever-changing, contingent upon such factors as age, cultural, psychopathology of the patient as well as with the social worker, clinical setting, and etcetera. Phillips (2003) discusses that the focus on psychopathology in the therapist and countertansferential that make them either abusive with their patients or vulnerable to boundary violations."
Abstract This paper describes how John Dewey's life and work in philosophy contributed to the field of education. The paper begins with a look at Dewey's early years and college-age years and what influenced him during these years and then goes on to discuss Dewey's views on social philosophy, psychology, logic, and ethics. The paper concludes with a discussion of his philosophy of education.
From the Paper "John Dewey was born on October 20, 1859, the third of four sons born to Archibald Sprague Dewey and Lucina Artemesia Rich of Burlington, Vermont (Field, 2001). Dewey's childhood years in Vermont played a role in shaping his later thought and theories. For, the Vermonters of those days were educated as much by industrial and agricultural activities, as they were by the local school. This led Dewey to realize that the most important parts of his education, until he entered college, were obtained outside the school-room. Dewey then used this realization to focus, both in theory and practice, on occupational activities as the most effective approach to genuine learning and personal intellectual discipline (Dewey, Harris, & Mccluskey, 1958, p. 178)."
Abstract This paper discusses the complex moral and ethical issues surrounding the topic of stem cell research and examines arguments that both favor and oppose the research. The paper also points out that there is little likelihood that the debate over stem cell research will be resolved soon; perhaps the debate will eventually move toward the question of how the research will be conducted, as opposed to if it should be conducted, since stem cell research seems to be continuing, in spite of all of the controversy it generates.
From the Paper "Today one of the most hotly debated issues is unquestionably stem cell research. Specifically, it involves harvesting and using a specific type of cell known as a "stem cell" and using it to attempt to develop or reproduce virtually any cell in the body. Of course this has tremendous potential for therapeutic benefit-some speculate from curing cancer, paralysis, Parkinson's disease, and a host of other maladies yet to be imagined. In lay terms, stem cells can serve as kind of "repair system for the body," which can divide infinitely-replenishing other cells. What is so powerful about the stem cell, however, is its ability to become another kind of specialized cell, say a brain, blood, bone marrow or muscle cell (NIH, 2004)."
Abstract This essay brings out the positive and negative points in the three major systems of morality: teleology, deontology, and the Aristotle's virtue-based systems of morality. It then explains why Mill's theory of Utilitarianism (teleology) would be better in today's society.
From the Paper "The majority of the population, probably including yourself, claims they act "morally". Many of these people ask other people to act "morally", but when you ask these "moral" people what morality is they stand there for a minute, and almost every single person will give you the wrong answer. So what is morality? In brief, morality is a basic set of principles that people follow. A perfect example would be Osama Bin Laden, a man that believes completely in what he does, and does it to his best. He has his own set of "morals" which he follows perfectly. He is acting morally. On the other hand we have Saddam Hussein; he does not follow any set of standards consistently, and therefore is not considered "moral". Obviously someone who acts morally may be acting morally according to their set of standards, but in our opinion are very wrong. This is because we have different systems of morality. There are three major systems of morality: Immanuel Kant's theory of Deontology, Aristotle's theory on Virtues, and finally the theory of Utility, or the Utilitarian principles of Teleology."
Abstract This paper claims that, in today's society, corporate governance has been strengthened. The paper contends that corporate governance is something most people took for granted because it was believed that the major corporations were upstanding pillars of the community. The paper examines what changed this belief and what happened to workplace ethics.
From the Paper "Workplace ethics and business ethics are they the same? In my view they're synonymous. You can't speak of one without the other being used. The choice of words used by many simply depends on who you talk to but they both have the same meaning. Ethics is not just about doing what's right financially; it also involves doing what's right for your employees and investors. Ethics in the workplace has always been spoken and in most instances a written policy exists. In the early part of this decade it was revealed that many companies and stewards of these companies disobeyed there own policies in regards to practicing workplace ethics. If businesses continue this path we are looking at the fall of other businesses such as Enron, WorldCom, and Computer Associates."
Abstract This paper offers a critical examination of ethical issues in professional sports, using theories and ideas from well-known experts in the field. After a brief look at the role of sports throughout history, the paper focuses on the importance of winning and the use of performance-enhancing drugs by athletes. It questions the widespread use of drugs in the pursuit of victory and critically examines the reasons that this practice is forbidden.
From the Paper "Avid interest in sports affects the entire world, from soccer in Europe to ice hockey in Russia. Sports were important in ancient times to the Greeks and Romans, and to Native American cultures as well. Robert Simon points out in his book Fair Play: The Ethics of Sport that "participation in sports, and the related activity of play, are characteristic of most, if not all, human societies" (2)."
Abstract Bram Stoker's "Dracula" is a gothic tale of Western civilization's struggle against a deadly being. In order to combat Dracula, a band of mismatched characters collaborate in their efforts to save humankind from the fatalities that could occur at the will of a foreign vampire. This paper shows that by using the scientific method, these characters are able to defeat the deadly vampire as he lacks their scientific ability. In "Dracula", scientific advancement acts as a positive force in the fight against the vampire as Dracula lacks the scientists' objectivity which everyone has the capabilities to acquire.
From the Paper "However, the scientists' ultimate faith in the scientific method limits them in their pursuit of Dracula. Van Helsing recognizes that scientists lack an open mind in mystical events such as Dracula's ability to materialize and dematerialize at will as good scientists are limited by their belief that what their limited senses notice are what constitute reality. The characters initially resist the possibility that vampires exist as they are limited by their interpretation of their observations."
Abstract This paper explains that, in the span of 30 years, computers have totally revolutionized the way people work: Although many of these changes have been welcomed; in almost all situations,they have contributed to job-related stress. The author points out that, when computers first come into the workplace, workers are afraid the computer will replace them or they are frustrated learning how to use the computer. The paper relates that a good business management tool is to practice ethics in the human services department especially during periods of downsizing; managers should make it as painless as possible for everyone involved.
From the Paper "While the rapidly changing technology of our time has created much mental and emotional stress in the work place, it has also caused some physical stress. Carpal tunnel syndrome has become an increasing problem. Other problems that can develop if proper precautions are not taken include fatigue, eye strain, and cramps. An alert manager can help prevent this by encouraging his employees to take periodic stretch breaks and teaching the employees about ergonomic positioning. Additionally, Microsoft produces keyboards and mice that are designed to reduce this type of job fatigue and strain. OSHA also has available on their website www.osha.gov additional information such as proper keyboard height to reduce eye strain."
Abstract This paper explains that embryonic stem cells are self-renewing, undifferentiated cells that are extracted from the inner cell mass of a 5-6 day old embryo or blasto-cyst, which destroys the embryo in the process of extracting the stem cells. The author stresses that the basic problems in embryonic stem cell research are the very highly valued moral problems it presents: (1) The prevention or alleviation of suffering and (2) the respect of human life. The paper stresses that the argument for and against cloning embryonic stem cells is also an argument as to the meaning of life and the recognition of the loss, at any point in life, of inevitable death.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is Embryonic Stem Cell?
The Basic Problem
Arguments Presented For and Against Cloning Embryonic Stem Cells
Conclusion
From the Paper "To endorse any use of the human embryo which was not consistent with a reverence for human life would be widely regarded as wrong. Those who believe that therapeutic research on embryos is ethically permissible, might argue that the creation and use of a human embryo outside the context of human reproduction does not necessarily undermine the attitude of respect for the human body and human dignity, provided that the purposes involved in such creation and use are purposes which we would recognize as beneficial ones. Medical uses fall into this category. In this view, it would appear to be quite consistent with an attitude of respect for human life to allow the use of human embryos at an early stage of development, well before the stage at which anything resembling a self can be said to come into existence. Such use promises to provide the possibility of the relief of a great deal of human suffering, a goal which in no sense calls into question respect for the human body."
Abstract This paper details the results of an interview between the writer of this paper and Ms. PC. The writer of this paper contends that the main goal of the interview is to give an in-depth look at the healthcare industry as well as the leadership style of Ms. PC. This paper analyzes the interview questions and answers which provide great insight into Ms. PC's understanding of the healthcare profession. This paper delves into the bureaucratic and administrative limitations as well as the many rewards to be found in this particular field of employment. The writer discusses the numerous aspects surrounding Ms. PC's profession including the need for basic morals and ethics, astute business acumen as well as good communication skills, honesty and integrity.
Table of Contents:
Introduction and Background
The Interview
Analysis
Ms. PC's Leadership Style
Some Limitations
Trust and Integrity
Conclusions
Works Cited
From the Paper "To find a mentor, one can have many mentors during their career, as leadership growth comes in stages. The skills and attitudes observed from other leaders allow one to determine if they are developing and growing into true leaders. When looking for footsteps to follow, observe their quality of work as a leader. I believe the most important trait is enthusiasm. Enthusiasm compensates for weak skills or lack of experience and brings positive energy to the team. An enthusiastic attitude is often contagious. And, integrity...that value is at the top of the list in importance, both as a personal value as well as a morale issue."
Abstract This paper discusses the basis of ethical decision-making, and what factors might affect the process. It discusses the various aspects of ethical decision-making, and the setting or rules and criteria before problems arise. The paper also investigates how people come to ethical decisions, and why and how rules are broken to reach ethical outcomes.
From the Paper "Ethical decision-making in the business world has received a great deal of interest in the last decade from public interest groups, political and religious leaders and from the general public who have become aware of the many cases of unethical business ..."
Abstract This paper discusses different perspectives of leadership and ethics in Ciulla's 2004 book, "Ethics, The Heart of Leadership." The paper examines the key concepts, the scope of issues and the moral relationship between leaders and followers.
From the Paper "The first five chapters of Ethics The Heart of Leadership edited by Joanne B Ciulla serve to establish the scope of the issues in two chapters and to consider the moral relationship between leaders and followers the next three chapters ..."
Abstract This paper looks at the role and development of ethics in the nursing profession. The paper begins with a discussion of the important moral principles in nursing. Next the paper assesses the relevance of traditional vs. ethical theories in nursing. The paper also questions the impact of critical thinking on nursing ethics. The paper concludes with an assessment of the importance of moral development within nurses on the continuing development of nursing ethics.
Abstract This paper applies the philosophy of utilitarianism to argue if favor of embryonic stem cell research. The paper discusses the ethical dilemma involved in destroying embryos and argues that the utility of stem cell research, its potential to reduce human suffering, make it ethical as well as necessary.
From the Paper "Embryonic stem cell research has the potential to open the floodgates of science, finding cures for a myriad of different cancers and diseases, saving millions of lives and averting untold human suffering in the process. Despite the nearly boundless promise that stem cells offer, there is a potent ethical dilemma involved. Namely, research into stem cells requires the destruction of human embryos. While there are indeed some powerful visceral arguments to be made concerning the sanctity of human life, I believe that there is an equally powerful ethically grounded argument..."
Abstract This paper discusses and analyzes The National Association of Social Workers' ((NASW) code of ethics, examining both the the social role of social workers and the power they hold over the lives of their clients.
From the Paper "Reading over the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) code of ethics, one is struck by the gap between their high-sounding moral pronouncements about appropriate treatment of clients and fellow workers and the social function of social workers in America. Karl Marx said something to the effect that charity serves to assuage the guilty consciences of the elite while never changing the conditions that generate poverty. While even Marx would probably not deny the indisputable good that social workers provide in enhancing the survival..."
