Tuskegee Syphilis Study

Sample Solution

    The chosen theory of determinism related to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study is Psychological Determinism. This theory states that our behaviors, actions and beliefs are determined by unconscious psychological forces beyond our control. In other words, we are not necessarily in complete control of or responsible for our own decisions and behavior as they may be driven by deeper mental processes that influence us without us being aware of them.

In regards to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, this theory can be applied due to the fact that many of those involved with the study were scientists who had been taught a certain set of ethical principles when it came to human subjects research. However, these scientific ethics were completely disregarded through their involvement in this unethical experiment which lasted over 40 years and caused tremendous suffering on the part of the 600 African-American men used as test subjects during this time period (“Tuskegee Syphilis Experiments: 1932-1972 | The National Archives”). It can be argued then that beneath their conscious moral values there existed some unconscious driving force leading them to behave in such an unethical manner—such as institutional racism within medical science or even simply a need for personal advancement within their careers. With regards to whether humans are free to make moral decisions based on Psychological Determinism or if outside forces determine their decisions, it would depend heavily upon how much awareness an individual has about themselves and what drives them unconsciously—emotionally or psychologically speaking. If one is self-aware enough then it might be possible for them exercise free will when making moral decisions; however, if one is unaware about how external factors are influencing their thinking and decision-making process then ultimately they could end up making choices based on forces beyond their control rather than freely deciding which ethic course of action is right for them personally—as was perhaps seen at play within some members involved in the Tuskegee Syphilis Study experiment itself. However, even though outside influences may have played a part in determining someone's decision-making process it doesn't mean they should not take responsibility for their actions either way - especially when said actions harm another person or group of people like was clearly done during this instance due largely to negligence and malpractice stemming from disregard towards basic ethical codes associated with scientific research involving human participants (“Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment Overview & Summary”). Therefore, although individuals can sometimes find themselves entrapped by external influences relating back to Psychological Determinism impacting upon how they choose morally act at times yet ultimately each person must still remain accountable for any negative consequences arising from such choices despite such circumstances–ultimately showing that no matter what determinant factor may have contributed humans should always strive towards making good moral decisions whenever possible regardless all else.