Ashley X’s treatment is generally cast as a brutal initiative by her parents in asking for the treatment of their daughter to make her life easy. Opponents and supporters of what has come to be known as the Ashley X treatment have come out strongly to give credence to their side of the argument. The arguments are consistent on the ethical question of whether the surgery that Ashley went through was acceptable. Issues of whether the situation warranted it and whether her human rights and dignity was considered. Each side of the case has presented evidence to explore their position, and why they believe that their argument is the right decision for Ashley.
In examining the arguments, one can not fail to notice that the arguments were moving and to some extent highly biased.The final treatment was actually the culmination of a medical necessity (Susan Pg970). The argument that Ashley was not accorded human dignity is, therefore, to be examined from the scientific point of view and what would have befallen her had the undertaking not been done.The best take in the case of Ashley X’s treatment is to take a stand based on what is right Ashley. Opponents of Ashley's treatment have argued that the treatment was not done to help Ashley. They argue it was to make life easy for her parents.
In his argument, Lewis describes the treatment as grotesque and totally unjustified. Throughout his article, he has stuck to the point that the treatment was unnecessary. On the other hand, Peter in his argument is supportive of the treatment. He argues that what matters is the girl’s comfort and that lofty talk and other opposing arguments should not stand in the way of the treatment.
Both arguments have given evidences to give credence to their opinion, but the question is for whose benefit was the treatment. In review of the arguments presented, it is necessary to address the fact that Ashley’s condition was extreme. An intervention that would make her life not only easier, but let her live a more dignified life was needed. The arguments presented against the treatment were in this analysis emotional and never came up with an actual explanation on how best the case should have been handled.
The opposing arguments main view has been that the treatment was unethical and should not have happened. On the other hand the supporting argument has been that the procedure indeed gave Ashley a better life. This is given that her condition put her at risk also made it difficult to care for her. Although the treatment has received heavy criticism, I am of the notion that the treatment was the best thing for her and her care givers.
This treatment indeed did help Ashley live a dignified life with her parents (Grayling, Pg 302). This is based on the view that the treatment makes her a more manageable and person and minimizes her health and social risks.
