Typhoid Mary: The Most Dangerous Woman in America Movie (Essay Sample)

Typhoid Mary: The Most Dangerous Woman in America
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Typhoid Mary: The Most Dangerous Woman in America
Introduction
The film is a major indication of situations in life and public service that call for intense sacrifices on one part for the sake of the community. The case of Mary Mallon also indicated the need for various levels and approaches to decision making that help to alleviate suffering at the cost of other people’s lives and comfort. At the onset of the film, it is easy to feel sorry for Mary Mallon who is not aware that she is a carrier, and further, after she is forced to take measures without appropriate consultation and interactions. Mary's banishment or quarantine is welcome and well understood as a decision that is made by a professional having considered all avenues and options.
First Decision
The first instance of decision-making that stands out in the film, is the decision by the public health officials and the local authorities to identify, locate and contain Mary. This is indeed an example of a one-sided decision that was made to find and contain her. On the contrary, there should have been ideas to first, engage with her and ensure she is on board with this idea before it was implemented. The decision making that saw the authorities’ decision to take a move upon her without involving her was informed by the false idea that she knew she was doing something wrong but still went ahead to infect people with the Typhoid flu. This decision was made at a level that she could not reach and when it got to her during its implementation, was not received well. The reception that she received about her diagnosis and treatment were considered as an offense and as such not welcome. This is an inform-of-decision, where the person with authority, who is the clinician, gathers information and makes a decision to ensure that the patient and the public are both protected.
Second Decision
Another decision that was made included her quarantine after she intentionally decided to infect many other people with the disease. In this case, she knew that she was a carrier of the disease and while she did not have many options as to the receipt of treatment, she did not want to act in the best interest of the public. This example of decision-making, signifying an inform-of-decision, was made of the best inte...