A search for methodological basis in bioethics (II): monoprinciple approach

The second paper in the series (see Bartkienė 2011) is designated to disclose the ways of solving the bioethical problems proposed by P. Singer and T. Engelhardt. Both thinkers use one principle approach maintaining that a single main principle is sufficient for acquiring basic normative guides in bioethics. Singer develops a utilitarian position and is questioning traditional notion of a person. Engelhardt is emphasizes the principle of respect for autonomy and proposes deontological conception of bioethics. On one hand, these theories offer clear normative guidance for resolving bioethical controversies in the sphere of medicine. On the other hand, these proposals should be evaluated very carefully because by stressing the significance of the notion of a person both theories reject traditional values of medical ethics, such as beneficence and respect for human life. Marginalizing the most vulnerable groups of society, such as mentally ill and small children, they open the path for dehumanized and commercialized medicine