Complete the answers to the six questions at the end of Case 26, “The BP Oil Spill and Mental Health”, pp. 687-688.
1. What are the ethical issues in this case?
2. Who are the stakeholders and how are they impacted by this situation?
3. Do you agree with Feinberg’s assertion that “you have to draw the line somewhere?”
4. Do you agree with Feinberg’s decision rule? His expectation is that there be a signature physical injury is consistent with tort law. Does that affect your answer?
5. Feinberg does not have jurisdiction over claims with states and municipalities. Do you believe his assessment of the place of mental health damages must apply to their claims as well?
6. If you were responsible for determining the validity of claims, what would you do? How would you describe your reasoning? What ethical principles or concepts would guide your thinking?