The Society: Identify and Discuss an Ethical Dilemma (Essay Sample)

Ethical dilemma
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Ethical dilemma
Posthumous conception through in vitro fertilization is a contentious issue that has various impacts on social values, norms and nursing practice in the society. The issue affects the social values both positively and negatively. There are chances that the people may use one’s frozen sperms or ovum for conception against the free will of the deceased with the aim of compelling the law to favor the children born as a result since they are biologically related to the deceased. It is against the ethical principles that are socially acceptable as it violates the deceased’s will, consent. In some instances, sperms can be harvested from the dead person’s body soon after death and stored for the posthumous conception, therefore, going against the value of respect for the dead and their right to be handled decently (Hostiuc & Curca, 2010).
It is against the social norms and religious beliefs of most religions for conception to occur in a manner that is considered unnatural. It is perceived by believers to be against the will of the Supreme Being. Additionally, it may impact the children born as a result psychologically, emotionally and spiritually and may be considered by the society to be products of technological and genetic modification (Steinberg, 2007).
The situation has considerable impacts on the nursing practice. The nurse can be faced with the ethical dilemma of whether to advise the clients who want posthumous conception for it or against since laws differ from place to place (Brazier, 2011). Moreover, the nurses may be faced with tough challenges of either advocating for the client’s interests and keep their information confidential even if it is against their personal values and consent of the deceased. In some instances, the consent may not be verifiable without the involv...