ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to identify the importance of judgement in everyday practice. In this context, judgement will be related to those complex decisions practitioners often face that present them with a moral dilemma. The resolution of moral dilemmas lies within the realm of ethics. The two main theories of ethics which underpin decisionmaking in the context of care will be explained and their implications discussed. These theories, utilitarianism and deontology, rest upon different propositions and therefore the implications for the client, their carers and professional practitioners may differ depending upon which perspective is applied. Briefly, the main tenet of the utilitarian perspective is to promote the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Thus the consequences of actions are of over-riding concern. In contrast, the deontological perspective holds that some actions are right in themselves, regardless of the consequences, and that the rights of the person, that is their human rights, are of primary importance.
