Ulysses Pact Research Paper

There is no objectively correct answer on matters of ethics, as each individual has their own perspective on any given situation. The idea of a ‘Ulysses pact’ is an ethical issue that permeates fields ranging from medicine to literature. In these situations, a decision is made freely before the person undergoes drastic change that affects their initial decision. Although controversy brings forth the argument of whether or not the decision originally made is binding, there should be no debate. An initial decision is made freely with the uppermost clarity of mind and should therefore be irrevocable, regardless of any future changes to the person’s condition that would alter this.
The term ‘Ulysses pact’ is derived from The Odyssey and its protagonist, …show more content…
In the story, the ‘Ulysses contract is made with the definite knowledge of the dangers posed by the Sirens. This is inherently different from medical decisions. In medicine, Ulysses contracts are made with the possibility of change, unlike the certainty of the one made in The Odyssey. However, both are made with the subject’s best interests in mind - to save their future self from causing self-damage. In both cases, the future version of the person are unable to properly make decisions, and so it is critically important for the wellbeing of those making Ulysses contracts to have their original wishes respected. In cases such as those involving J.S., decisions are made regarding entry to experimental procedures with the expectation that doctors go through with their choice, regardless of what a future, incapacitated version of the patient …show more content…
When patients such as J.S. make a decision to enter the experimental protocol, they make it without knowing what the experiment would exactly hold. In J.S.’ situation, entry into the experiment meant deteriorating into an “acutely psychotic condition.” The change in condition inherently affects their mindset about their participation. It is possible that the patient does retain a degree of mental fitness and by refusing treatment, they are consciously acting based on their present condition. If the experimental procedure were continued regardless, it would be a violation of the person’s refusal to give consent, thus being both morally and legally wrong. This argument can only be made with the assumption that the patient is in a capable state mentally, however. Based on J.S. actions while in a psychotic state, it is something extremely improbable. In addition J.S. did not seem deterred by the reality of the experiment, as he “begged for another chance (86).” Clearly, a patient original decision, which accurately represents what they seek, should be