Final answer:
The assumption by a patient's family regarding end-of-life care preferences without actual knowledge reflects paternalism, as they are making a decision on the patient's behalf based on what they believe is best, not considering the patient's autonomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assumption by a patient's family that they know what is best for the patient without knowing the patient's end-of-life care preferences reflects paternalism. Paternalism is the practice of making decisions for others, based on the belief that it is in their best interest, without giving them the autonomy to make their own choices. This contrasts with the principle of autonomy, which upholds the right of patients to make decisions about their own healthcare.
In the context of healthcare ethics, justice refers to fairness in the distribution of care and resources, pragmatism is the approach of considering the practical aspects and outcomes of care decisions, and veracity upholds the truthfulness and honesty between healthcare providers and patients. However, the family's assumption without knowledge of patient preferences does not align with these principles; instead, it aligns with paternalistic behavior.