Setting Limits for the Principle of Equal Entitlement to Continued Life

Juan D. Moreno-Ternero, Lars Peter Østerdal*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Working paperResearch

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Abstract

The normative principle that every individual is equally entitled to continued life is a subject of debate in ethics, health economics and policy. We reconsider this principle in the context of setting priorities for healthcare interventions. When applied without restriction, the principle overlooks quality of life concerns entirely. However, we contend that it remains ethically relevant in certain situations, particularly when patients su↵er from conditions unrelated to the therapeutic areas and treatments under consideration. Thus, we defend the principle while also emphasizing the need for its application within tight limits.
Original languageEnglish
Place of PublicationFrederiksberg
PublisherDepartment of Economics. Copenhagen Business School
Number of pages17
Publication statusPublished - 2024
SeriesDepartment of Economics. Copenhagen Business School. Working paper
Number18-2024

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