Save Sir Henry or homeless Bert? (An ethics problem for discussion)

     The famous doctor and scientist Sir Henry Ponsonby-Smythe was returning from an important research conference at which he told the delegates he was on the verge of a major breakthrough in the treatment of cancer. Unfortunately for Sir Henry, on the way home he crashed his car. His injuries were life-threatening; indeed, when he arrived at the local hospital, it was clear he needed to be put on a life support machine to enable his body to recover from his injuries. The hospital had only one life support machine. And it was occupied by a well-known local vagrant, Bert, who had slipped and fractured his skull. You are in charge of the life support machine. You have a decision to make: who do you save? (Medically, both patients have equal chances of recovery.) Will it be Sir Henry or poor Bert?

In considering your answer, what does your faith or value system tell you about hoiw you should act?