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Briefly summarize the Tuskegee Syphilis Study (Be sure to cite the source used for your summary)
The Tuskegee Syphilis study is considered a research atrocity and a horrific breach of ethics within the scientific community. Based on this example, choose one theory of Determinism (Religious, Scientific, Historical, Economic, or Psychological). Briefly summarize this theory in 1-2 sentences. Explain how the chosen theory relates to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study.
Based on your chosen theory, are humans free to make moral decisions of their own free will or are their decisions determined by outside forces? Are they morally responsible for their actions?
The chosen theory is Psychological Determinism, which states that all behavior and mental processes are predetermined by internal and external factors.
This theory relates to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study in that it highlights the power dynamics between researchers and vulnerable populations, as well as how a lack of ethical standards can lead to exploitation. In this case, the participants of the study were not free to make moral decisions due to their disadvantaged social status, economic situation, and lack of access to healthcare options; they had no real choice but to comply with what was asked of them. Therefore, they cannot be seen as morally responsible for any actions taken throughout the course of the experiment.