O.J. Schofield

A Thought Experiment - Any Answers?

Lawrence Kohlberg spent many years developing the findings and theories of other psychologists such as Piaget on the subject of moral development. To test his theories, he devised a number of dilemmas for his subjects. Have a go at the most famous, I will add discussion of the findings at a later date :)

Heinz and the Druggist.

Heinz’s wife is near death due to cancer. The doctor believes there is one drug, recently discovered by a biochemist, which may be able to save her. The drug is pricey to produce - costing $200 for a course of treatment, however the biochemist is charging $2,000 for this amount. Heinz tries many forms of fundraising and borrowing to raise the money, but cannot gather more than $1,000. Heinz goes to the biochemist, asking him for a reduced price or to let him pay at a later date, however the biochemist stubbornly sticks to his price. An act of desperation, Heinz breaks into the biochemist’s lab and steals some of the drug.

Was Heinz justified in his action? If so, why? If not, why not?

It would be great if people could comment their reactions to this conundrum, an interesting study certainly. I will post discussion soon! Please spread the word and do not hesitate to reblog - the more feedback we get the more interesting it will be. :)

My answer: yes. That stems largely from my innate belief in the sanctity of human life, and the responsibility of humans to guard and prolong that life over other considerations. Life > Money.

Either drop an answer in your reblog, or by commenting on the original post!

Source: psychologeek