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The Heinz Dilemma
Read the following scenario, and then answer the questions presented after. Copy and paste the questions and post your answers in a journal entry or assignment thread, titled, "Writing Assignment - Heinz dilemma".
Heinz's wife was near death, and her only hope was a drug that had been discovered by a pharmacist who was selling it for an exorbitant price. The drug cost $20,000 to make, and the pharmacist was selling it for $200,000. Heinz could only raise $50,000 and insurance wouldn't make up the difference. He offered what he had to the pharmacist, and when his offer was rejected, Heinz said he would pay the rest later. Still the pharmacist refused. In desperation, he broke into the drug store to steal the drug for his wife.
(Note: For the purpose of the assignment, we are to understand that Heinz has exhausted every avenue to obtain the money or the drug legally.)
Did Heinz do the right thing?
Why or why not?
If Heinz doesn't love his wife, should he steal the drug for her?
Why or why not?
Suppose the person dying is not his wife but a stranger. Should Heinz steal the
drug for a stranger?
Why or why not?
Suppose it is a pet animal he loves. Should Heinz steal to save the pet animal?
Why or why not?
Why should people do everything they can to save another's life?
It is against the law for Heinz to steal? Does that make it morally wrong?
Why or why not?
Should people generally do everything they can to avoid breaking the
law?
Why or why not?
How does this relate to Heinz's case?
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