QUESTION TYPE: Necessary Assumption
CONCLUSION: Some restricted nonconsensual medical research should be allowed (in medical emergencies).
REASONING: While nonconsensual research is generally wrong (because patients have a right to be informed), progress in emergency treatment requires nonconsensual research.
ANALYSIS: We have a conflict between patients’ rights, and overall medical knowledge.
___________
- Not a necessary assumption. Research could still be required even if doctors only occasionally did not know the best treatment.
- Not a necessary assumption. There could be other reasons why nonconsensual research is required. In emergency situations patients are often unconscious and unable to consent.
- Not necessary. The argument implies that the main benefit of the research is for future patients.
- Definitely not necessary. This is a very extreme statement. The stimulus takes pains to say that consent can be waived only on a restricted basis.
- CORRECT. Yes. If this assumption isn’t true, the argument falls apart. Patient consent always takes precedence, and research is never justified without consent.
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