07654 - Bioethics

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module the student possesses the knowledge to develop critical skills with respect to the main bioethical issues of the obstetric profession, after having historically framed them.

Course contents

Introduction to bioethics

Main ethical theories: utilitarianism, deontology, ethics of virtues, ethics of care, ethics of the four principles

Ethical issues of early life: law 194/1978; medically assisted procreation; conscientious objection

End of life issues: advance treatment arrangements, suicide aid, euthanasia.

Consent and refusal / revocation of health treatment

Confidentiality and HIV

At least one third of the lesson hours will be devoted to exercises in small groups followed by discussion in plenary. During the lessons, topics of discussion not included in the program may emerge, which will be deepened as case studies if deemed necessary by the students.

Readings/Bibliography

Cattorini: Bioetica, Elsevier, Milan, 2011 (Part I: Chapters 1, 2, 3; Part II: chapters 2, 3, 5; any other chapters selected on the basis of what will emerge during the lessons). During the course, didactic material and lecture presentations will be provided.

Teaching methods

Lectures and case discussions. Exercises according to the case-based learning methodology.

Assessment methods

The exam will consist of a written test with multiple choices, which aims to evaluate the achievement of the educational objectives: to know the main ethical theories and the most relevant ethical issues of the profession. At the end of the course the students will receive an example of how the questions will be structured and the relative evaluation.

Teaching tools

Slides provided in class

Office hours

See the website of Arianna Giorgetti