Homework on Wells & Goldacre, The Nocebo and Placebo effects


All answers must be in your own words.

1. How do the placebo and nocebo effects pose problems for the idea that morally relevant consent is required for medical treatment to be morally permissible? (2pts)

2. Why, according to Goldacre, should doctors not conceal from patients that they are administering placebos? Do you think that the effects he is concerned about are likely enough to outweigh the good placebos can do? Why or why not? (2pts)

3.a. According to Wells, is withholding information about nocebo effects always withholding relevant information from patients? Why or why not? (1pt)
b. Explain Wells' proposed way of dealing with nocebo effects, in your own words. (1pt)
c. Setting aside what you said for (a), why else (according to Wells) might withholding information from patients about nocebo effect be consistent with the goals of informed consent? (1pt)
d. Do you agree with (c)? (1pt)

4. In your opinion, is it permissible for doctors to administer placebos without informing patients, or to leave out information about nocebo effects? Why? (2pts)