Here is an optional poll that students can choose to respond to as a way to start thinking about deontology and how to use this theory to argue for and/or against an issue.
The issue in this poll is whether blood transfusions should be given to patients belonging to the Jehovah's witness religion. As part of this religion, there is a blood ban, based on the strict literal interpretation of several scriptural passages of New world Translation of Bible. This may mean that life-saving blood transfusions may not align with their religious views.
You can read more here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4260316/
For argument's sake, let's say you are part of the team when a 24 year old female patient is brought in to the ICU. They have been in a motor vehicle accident. They have suffered blood loss but are conscious. They clearly tell members of the team that they are Jehovah's witness and do not wish to receive a blood transfusion. Their condition deterioates and they lose consciousness. It becomes apparent that blood loss from the accident necessitates an immediate blood transfusion if her life is to be saved. What should be done?
As you respond to this poll, think about the theory of deontology. Try to use rules/duties/laws to underpin your reasons for agreeing/disagreeing with the proposal.
Image source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fresh_blood.jpg Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.
It is proposed that the female patient is given a life-saving transfusion, against her wishes