An empirically informed ethical analysis of conditional and directed deceased organ donation

• Main Author: Moorlock, Gregory
• Published: University of Birmingham 2013
• Subjects: 610; R Medicine (General)
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.569733

This thesis explores the ethics of conditional and directed deceased organ donation. It uses an empirical bioethics approach that uses empirical data to inform and enhance philosophical analysis. An initial philosophical analysis of the key ethical considerations was undertaken, and it is argued that the policy prohibiting most conditional and directed donations is wrong. The concept of altruism, in particular, is poorly conceived and applied in transplantation policy. Qualitative data obtained by interviewing relevant stakeholders are presented. The data suggest that although there are concerns about the consequences of accepting conditional and directed donations, many participants thought these donations should be accepted in some circumstances. The data also provide lines of argument against conditional and directed donations, and these are considered. Using this data, and making some reasonable assumptions, it is argued that it is better to accept conditional and directed donations than it is to reject them. The thesis culminates with 8 recommendations for policy regarding conditional and directed donations, and argues that a trial period of accepting these donations should be implemented so that the effects can be accurately observed.