I have a multiple choice question, I've narrowed it down to 2...
A case in medical ethics is paradigmatic when it
a. is similar to a prior case
b. establishes a precedent
Can someone please explain which one it this? I'd appreciate any help. Thank you.
They are definitely very close, but I'd choose b.
http://www.answers.com/topic/paradigm
To determine the correct answer between options (a) and (b), let's analyze the concepts involved.
A case in medical ethics is considered paradigmatic when it is seen as an exemplary or archetypal case. In the context of medical ethics, a paradigmatic case is often used as a model for understanding and making decisions about similar cases that arise in the future.
Considering this definition, the correct answer would be option (a) - "is similar to a prior case." A paradigmatic case is not necessarily the one that establishes a precedent but rather one that serves as a reference point due to its similarities with other cases. It helps guide ethical discussions and decisions by drawing from past experiences and considering similar situations.
Therefore, in the context of medical ethics, when a case is considered paradigmatic, it means it shares similarities with a prior case or cases, which in turn can be helpful in understanding and approaching new cases that have similar ethical considerations.