Kialo requires JavaScript to work correctly.
Demo Classroom Debate: Medical Ethics
Loading Discussion
Selected claim, supporting its parent
Capabilities theories advocate for universal healthcare because universal healthcare is necessary for individuals to live their lives to the best of their abilities.
Pros
Cons
Pro claim 1
According to Nussbaum, "the political entitlements of all citizens are equal and the same". (Principles of Bioethics, p. 60)
Pro claim 2, children below
Martha Nussbaum’s theory holds that a minimal level of social justice requires "the availability to all citizens of ten core 'capabilities.'" These capabilities include being able to live a normal life without dying prematurely or existing in a reduced state making life not worth living and being able to have good health, nutrition, and shelter (Principle of Bioethics, p.259).
Con claim 1, children below
Capabilities theories are overly paternalistic - that is, they assume that the state can determine its citizens needs better than the citizens can on their own.
Con claim 2
While a capabilities theory can be used to support certain minimal healthcare requirements, it can't necessarily be used to justify the provision of robust health care.