Question

An Ethical Dilemma Problem

Answer 1

Answer:

An Ethical Dilemma Problem

Throughout history it has been the practice in many countries to use convicts in scientific experiments or studies. One research group has developed a chemical that preliminary tests indicate that it will cure a fatal disease that affects many people. This group wants to seek volunteers from the prison population to advance their study. They would administer the chemical to consenting prisoners and monitor its effects on the human body.

No study of this type is ever risk free, but the researchers have designed a protocol that they believe minimizes it for the prisoners. Because there can always be unexpected consequences, including illness or death, participants are offered special privileges during the testing period and possible reduction in their sentences after the conclusion of the study. Since, some of the prisoners consenting to be treated for a long period of time with higher doses of the chemical than the other participants, this group is offered full pardons at the conclusion of the study as an inducement to consent. The research group has proposed its study to those in charge of the prison and these administrators must decide whether to allow the study. If John Stuart Mill was presented with this study proposal what would he determine? That is, from his Utilitarian perspective, would Mill claim this program is moral? Use his ideas and evaluate this program from his perspective and note how he would advise the administrators.

Explanation: