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Who is entitled to double effect?

J Boyle1

  • 1St. Michael's College, Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The Journal of Medicine and Philosophy
|October 1, 1991
PubMed
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The doctrine of double effect is justified and necessary when upholding exceptionless moral norms against harm. This principle guides ethical decision-making in complex bioethical cases, particularly within the Catholic tradition.

Area of Science:

  • Bioethics
  • Moral Philosophy
  • Theology

Background:

  • The doctrine of double effect is a key principle in bioethical casuistry.
  • It holds significance within the Catholic moral tradition and contemporary philosophy.
  • Challenges persist regarding its justification and application.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To argue for the justification and necessity of the doctrine of double effect.
  • To demonstrate its role in upholding exceptionless moral norms.
  • To provide a framework for applying the doctrine to controversial bioethical issues.

Main Methods:

  • Philosophical argumentation
  • Ethical casuistry
  • Analysis of moral traditions
Keywords:
Analytical ApproachBioethics and Professional EthicsPhilosophical ApproachReligious Approach

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Main Results:

  • The doctrine of double effect is justified and necessary if exceptionless norms against harm are accepted.
  • Objections to its superfluity are seen as rejections of underlying normative convictions.
  • A method for correct application to contentious cases is proposed.

Conclusions:

  • The doctrine of double effect is essential for maintaining absolute moral prohibitions on harm.
  • Versions of the doctrine that abandon strict moral absolutism are inadequately justified.
  • Adherence to the doctrine's traditional framework ensures its robust application.