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Philosophy
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Feb 20, 2024
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Kelly Edmonstone
Business Ethics 1. Are drug companies that test experimental drugs in foreign countries acting ethically?
According to Robert Nozick's entitlement theory, individuals and companies have the right to acquire, possess, and transfer property as long as it is acquired through just means. If drug companies follow ethical guidelines and ensure that the testing process in foreign countries meets appropriate safety and ethical standards, they can be considered to be acting ethically. However, if they exploit vulnerable populations or fail to uphold proper ethical standards, it would be considered unethical.
2. Is American industry at too much risk of lawsuits to remain competitive? Should companies trying to develop drugs be given immunity from lawsuits?
Under John Rawls' theory of distributive justice, fairness and equal opportunity are essential. Granting immunity from lawsuits to companies developing drugs could create an unfair advantage and undermine
the principle of justice. Instead, it is important to focus on improving the legal system to ensure fairness and provide appropriate safeguards for both consumers and companies.
3. Is it ethical for companies to decline to sell a useful drug because they can make more money marketing drugs that are more widely needed? Is it ethical for companies to decline to sell a useful drug in a foreign country because they can make more money marketing the drug elsewhere
?
Do companies have an ethical obligation to make drugs available in poor countries at little or no cost?
According to John Rawls' theory of distributive justice, the well-being of the least advantaged members of society should be prioritized. If a company declines to sell a useful drug solely for the purpose of maximizing profits, it can be seen as ethically questionable. Companies have an ethical obligation to ensure that essential drugs are accessible and affordable, especially in poor countries where individuals may not have the resources to afford them.
4. The makers of EpiPen have raised the cost of a 2-pack of this life-saving injection to over $600. Should drug costs be controlled or regulated?
Both Robert Nozick's entitlement theory and John Rawls' theory of distributive justice would argue that access to life-saving drugs should be ensured. While companies have the right to set prices based on
market factors, excessively high prices that prevent individuals from accessing necessary medications can
be seen as ethically problematic. Balancing the need for innovation and profit with the ethical obligation to provide affordable healthcare is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and possibly regulation to ensure fair access to essential medications.
In summary, the ethical considerations surrounding drug companies testing drugs in foreign countries, the risk of lawsuits in the American industry, the decision to sell or not sell useful drugs based on profitability, and drug costs require a nuanced approach. Both Nozick's entitlement theory and Rawls' theory of distributive justice emphasize the importance of fairness, equal opportunity, and access to
Kelly Edmonstone
Business Ethics essential resources, and can provide insights into the ethical considerations involved in these complex issues.
Works Cited
William H shaw, V. B. (2016). Moral Issues in Buisiness.
Boston : Cengage Learning.
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