Hugur - 01.06.2009, Side 53

Fósturgrein ingar
51
Abstract
Fetal Screening: Reflections on the Ethical Debate Between Medicine and
Disability Studies
The ethical discussion between medicine and disability studies on fetal screening
seems to show two very different schools of thought on the matter.
In this article I examine some criticism of medicine put forth by spokespeople
of disability studies, and draw on the ideological basis of these two disciplines
with the purpose of trying to understand better the nature of the underlying
disagreement between them. Spokespeople of disability studies often claim that
the role of the doctor is first and foremost to change the individual and make him
“normal”. They argue further that the attention of the doctor is focused on the
impairment of the individual instead of admitting that disability is rooted in so-
ciety. By focusing on the impairment the medical view seems to categorize people
and make some of them of less worth than others.The crux of this argument lies
in the view that the doctor does not see the inherent worth of the person. In the
article I argue that this criticism defines the ideology and purpose of medicine too
narrowly. However, although the criticism may be partly flawed, it is still impor-
tant for doctors to take it seriously and use it to sharpen their ideas on their role
and ideology.
Medicine is not solely a natural science, it is also rooted in an ethos where
humanity, human mortality and vulnerability is acknowledged. In clinical work
the doctor should remember that every person is unique and of invaluable worth.
By holding on to these essential truths it is possible to outline an ideological base
where disability studies and medicine can meet and engage in challenging ethical
discussions.