Backnotes

Health

Define the meaning of being healthy:

Being healthy is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of a disease or infirmary.
 

Outline some of the principles/aims of the World Health Organisation (WHO):

  1. The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the most fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition. 
  2. The health of all peoples is fundamental to the attainment of peace and security and is dependent upon the fullest cooperation of individuals and the States.
  3. The achievement of any State in the promotion and protection of health is of value to all.
  4. Unequal development in different countries in the promotion of health and control of disease, especially communicable disease, is a common danger.
  5. Healthy development of the child is of basic importance; the ability to live harmoniously in a changing total environment is essential to such development.
  6. The extension to all peoples of the benefit of medical, psychological, and related knowledge is essential to the fullest attainment of health.
  7. Informed opinion and active cooperation on the part of the public are of the utmost importance in the improvement of the health of people.
  8. Governments have a responsibility for the health of their peoples which can be fulfilled only by the provision of adequate health and social measures.

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Justify whether or not governments are responsible for people’s health:

Arguments for free healthcare:

  • All humans are equal and deserve to live a healthy life regardless of class
  • Providing citizens with free healthcare is good for economic productivity
  • Without free healthcare, the public has a higher chance to be exposed to communicable diseases.

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Arguments against free healthcare:

  • Rights do not mean giving something for free but protecting liberties.
  • People should have the right to spend their money however they want rather than taxes.
  • Instead of money being used for free healthcare, the money should be used to address the root of the poor health issue.

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