Asking the Tough Moral Questions

The readings for next week ask tough moral questions, and there are many other useful links and readings that do the same. I'll start with some of these questions. We can respond in class, and perhaps more fully on the blog. (I also wanted to give you an idea of how I might ask questions at the beginning of class - based on the readings - and also on your thoughts about the topic.) This is a class that will ask more tough questions than we can answer, but by learning together, we will come to understand these issues with more knowledge and therefore have a better discussion with others.

In the prologue to T.R. Reid's book, he introduces the reader to Nikki White. "Nikki didn't die of lupus; it was a lack of access to healthcare that killed Nikki." Not everyone is covered, and in rural communities, where health insurance companies have all left, hospitals have closed. No insurance; no emergency rooms, no hospitals. Healthcare has become a commodity for those who can afford it, but even they complain of the costs they pay out of pocket.

The primary issue is a moral one: Should we guarantee medical treatment to everyone who needs it Here are some related questions to consider:

1. Do we have a moral obligation to provide healthcare to everyone as needed or is healthcare a commodity that should be subject to the same marketplace influences as other commodities?

2. Should employers be required by law to offer health insurance to employees?

3. Should everyone be required to have health insurance much as drivers are required to have auto insurance?