Quote:
Originally Posted by Psi U MC Vito
Sounds like the code of ethics allows for procedures that might put the fetus at risk. I doubt it would cover an out and out abortion.
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It's the principle of double effect. The gist would be that an action that has two effects -- one morally good and one morally bad -- is morally acceptable
if there is no intent to cause the morally bad act and if morally acceptable means are used. So for example, removal of the fallopian tubes in an ectopic pregnancy would be moral as necessary to save the mother's life even though it will result in the death of the fetus. The death of the fetus would be considered an indirect (though certain) result of removing the fallopian tubes, which is necessary to save the life of the mother. But if an actual abortion were performed, that would fail the double effect test both because a morally bad effect (an abortion) is intended and because it is use of an immoral means.
The principle is also sometimes invoked in situations involving the withholding or removing of life support.