College hosting Community Medical Ethics Project’s vaccine discussion

GREENVILLE, Pa.—The Community Medical Ethics Project, a collaboration between UPMC Horizon, Thiel College, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and St. Paul’s Continuing Care Community will discuss “Vaccinations: The Reality Behind The Debate” on Nov. 11 in the Lutheran Heritage Room of the Howard Miller Student Center on the Thiel College campus.

The first session is from 1-3 p.m. and the second is from 6-8 p.m. The discussion is free and open to the public. The content for both sessions is the same. Thiel College Professor of Philosophy Arthur White, Ph.D., and Associate Professor of Philosophy Matthew R. Morgan, Ph.D., will present. Pediatrician David Hefner, D.O., and family practice doctor Deborah Snyder, D.O., will be panel members.

The presentation and panel discussion is approved for American Medical Association Physician’s Recognition Award Category 1 credits.

While skepticism about the efficacy and safety of vaccines persists among some, there is major scientific evidence showing their effectiveness at minimizing many major diseases. The following questions will be discussed:

• Does the majority, in accepting scientific arguments, have the right to coerce or impose vaccinations against the wishes of those who object?
• What are the ethical arguments, in favor, and against such coercion?
• Should adults who object to vaccinations have their liberty protected?
• Should children’s vaccinations be mandated against the wishes of their parents?
• When do the needs of the majority limit the freedoms of a few?

A question-and-answer period will follow the discussion.

The mission of the Community Medical Ethics project is to help people in the community better understand medical ethics issues so they can make better decisions involving their healthcare.

For more information or to register, call 724-983-7168. Registration is available at the door.

About Thiel College

Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.