<p>The central problems investigated in this thesis concern the theory and practice of critical ethical reflection from the standpoint of hermeneutical philosophy. The overriding questions addressed in the thesis are, does hermeneutical philosophy leave us with an attenuated conception of, or diminished capacity for, ethical critique, as certain of its critics maintain? How is critical reflection possible in lieu of foundations and formal decision procedures, and what philosophical resources are at its disposal? More fundamentally, what is involved in the practice of critical reflection? In arguing that such reflection is best viewed as a mode of heIp hermeneutic discourse, questions arise concerning the role served by moral imagination in the practice of critique. It also raises questions concerning the role, if any, which ethical theory serves in informing a critique of human practices. Does critical reflection require the assistance of an ethical theory? If, as I contend, it does, then what method of theorizing i.s consistent with the principles of hermeneutics? Finally, how does hermeneutical philosophy view the relation between theory and practice in moral philosophy?</p> / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

<p>ABSTRACT</p><p><strong>Background:</strong> A diary often helps the critically ill patient better to understand her/his illness and fill gaps in memory regarding their experiences in the ICU. To date there appears to be a lack of research that specifically focuses on family members’ experiences of the use of a diary within the intensive care setting. <strong>Aim: </strong>The aim of the study was to explore how family members experienced a diary kept during their sick relative’s stay in the ICU. <strong>Methodology: </strong>A qualitative methodology and, in particular, a hermeneutic approach were deemed to be appropriate for the study. Eleven participants were interviewed relating to nine diaries. Collected data have been analysed using hermeneutic interpretation inspired by Gadamer. <strong>Findings:</strong> Family members experienced that the diary sustained strengthened and deepened the connection to their sick relative and confirmed the presence of family members at bedside. The diary worked as a forum for mutual exchange of information between nurses and family members which led to a feeling of being united with the nurses in understanding. This in turn created a sense of togetherness and the family members didn’t feel neglected. In addition the diary was experienced as an implied hope that the outcome of the ICU stay would be good<strong>, </strong>thereby lending strength to worried family members<strong>. Conclusion: </strong>The diary was experienced as a tool that enhanced family members’ wellbeing.</p>

ABSTRACT Background: A diary often helps the critically ill patient better to understand her/his illness and fill gaps in memory regarding their experiences in the ICU. To date there appears to be a lack of research that specifically focuses on family members’ experiences of the use of a diary within the intensive care setting. Aim: The aim of the study was to explore how family members experienced a diary kept during their sick relative’s stay in the ICU. Methodology: A qualitative methodology and, in particular, a hermeneutic approach were deemed to be appropriate for the study. Eleven participants were interviewed relating to nine diaries. Collected data have been analysed using hermeneutic interpretation inspired by Gadamer. Findings: Family members experienced that the diary sustained strengthened and deepened the connection to their sick relative and confirmed the presence of family members at bedside. The diary worked as a forum for mutual exchange of information between nurses and family members which led to a feeling of being united with the nurses in understanding. This in turn created a sense of togetherness and the family members didn’t feel neglected. In addition the diary was experienced as an implied hope that the outcome of the ICU stay would be good, thereby lending strength to worried family members. Conclusion: The diary was experienced as a tool that enhanced family members’ wellbeing.

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