Thinking Outside the (Pine) Box: Ethics Consultation as Imaginative Inquiry and Practical Problem-Solving.

The article explores the ethical dilemma faced by a social worker regarding the cremation of a deceased individual at a hospital's expense, emphasizing that the answer to whether this is permissible is complex and context-dependent. It highlights the need for a thorough understanding of both practic...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American Journal of Bioethics Vol. 26; no. 1; pp. 119 - 122
Main Author: Bartlett, Virginia L.
Format: Journal Article
Published: Taylor & Francis Ltd Jan2026
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
Description
Summary:The article explores the ethical dilemma faced by a social worker regarding the cremation of a deceased individual at a hospital's expense, emphasizing that the answer to whether this is permissible is complex and context-dependent. It highlights the need for a thorough understanding of both practical and moral considerations, including financial constraints, legal definitions of "unclaimed" bodies, and the emotional and cultural beliefs of the widow regarding burial versus cremation. The author suggests that effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders, including the widow and hospital staff, are crucial in navigating this sensitive situation, ultimately advocating for a nuanced approach to ethics in clinical practice.