Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): An Ethical Dilemma

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Case Summary In recent years, the National Football League (NFL) has been very profitable. Revenues have climbed significantly in recent decades. This wealth goes beyond the team owners and players within the NFL. Football has created jobs and revenues throughout the United States. The real value of the NFL goes beyond the economic gain. Football has had a positive influence on both players and fans of all ages. Despite this, recent studies have shown the alarming risks of football. A brain disease has been connected to the repeated blows to the head that many players receive throughout their career. This disease is called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). Symptoms of this disease include dementia, impaired judgement, aggression, impulse control problems, and depression. Many lives have been negatively affected because of this disease. There is no doubt that there is debate on whether the NFL should make substantial additional changes to the way the game is played. Both sides of the dilemma have legitimate reasons backing up their claim.
Position Statement & Analysis The NFL should not have to make substantial additional changes even though the game may never be safe. The ethical theory of utilitarianism supports this argument. Utilitarianism is an ethical perspective in which all
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These men have sacrificed so much to have the opportunity to play professional football. They understand the consequences in which they are facing. Concussions are a real issue. However, the benefits far outweigh the consequences for the players. These players are playing football because of the vast number of benefits they are receiving. They enjoy the competition, love their teammates, and receive a substantial amount of money for playing a game. This monetary reward is enough to benefit their entire family. Professional football players understand the consequences relating to health risks yet are still