ution or outcome to a problem or issue (Schunn & Anderson, 1999). Scientific reasoning frequently is perceived only as an empirical approach; however, scientific reasoning is a process, as opposed to a simple differentiation between quantitative and qualitative analyses. Thus, sociological approaches to understanding the human condition, such as symbolic interaction, involves the application of scientific reasoning. This approach to understanding how to improve access to effective health care for the poor is examined.
The concept of moral authority in relation to health care may be distilled down to a question of trust. The transformation of the health care system in the United States is weakening the traditional trust between physician and patient, as well as between the members of the lower socioeconomic groups in American society and those elements of American society who appear to control access to health care. This approach to understanding how to improve access to effective health care for the poor is examined.
Applied ethics in a professional role involves more than the actions of health care providers. Health care funders, such as third party insurers and government, also are involved. This approach to understanding how to improve access to effective health care for the poor is examined.
Understanding How to Improve Access to Effective Health Care for the Poor Through A Consideration of Scientific Reasoning
Empiricism holds that all "knowledge is the product of personal experience" (O'Neill, 1981, p. 208). Philosophical behaviorism extends this idea to state that personal experience is "the product of the behavior (interaction) between the organism and its physical and social environment" (O'Neill, 1981, p. 208). Materialism further extends the concept, stating that all behavior "grows out of the interaction between physical objects and/or events" (O'Neill, 1981, p. 208).
Empiricism contends, with respect...