Date of Award

Spring 5-11-2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

Department

Philosophy

Advisor

Gary Jones

Abstract

Is health deserved? Is your health owed to you? What does this mean, and whose responsibility is it? I argue that American culture’s use of  personal autonomy, “framing”, and ethical intimidation has stunted the improvement of both political and legal structures. This is evident in the politicization of the ‘for-profit’ healthcare system in the United States. American policymakers frequently weaponize moral foundations in order to coerce voters into supporting or opposing certain healthcare policies derived from the principle that some people are more "deserving" of health than others. This calculated “framing” of health concepts has deeply politicized such an ethical topic, hindered real change, and maximized corporate revenue. The US healthcare structure systematically rewards the exploitation of patients and penalizes citizens who struggle to afford escalating healthcare expenses. In contrast, Japan’s healthcare model is rooted in shared social responsibility and resident-based insurance policies. This provides an alternative system where universal healthcare can be achieved effectively, while preserving the use of private insurers.

Download

Share

COinS