Medical Ethics, Research and Development

In relation to medical research, the GSCE syllabus specifically mentions:- the sanctity of life and contemporary debate. The sanctity of life principle is discussed on this site under matters of life. Cross reference should be made between this topic and the following - genetic engineering, embryology, cloning, transplant surgery.

Under medical developments, the GCSE syllabus specifically mentions disease prevention and cure, and increased human longevity.

Under medical ethics, the GCSE/A'level syllabus specifies the allocation of resources (in research), and new research - it's limits and responsibilities.

The following articles consider the motives behind research:

• Research Fraud
• Personal Agendas in Research

The allocation of resources is a huge issue within medicine and other areas (such as the use of global resources to feed people and deal with poverty). People tend to speak of resources in terms of money, although human resources, time, and natural resources may also be relevant. Resources are limited in the medical world. When there are not enough medical resources to meet the need of everyone, how should we decide who gets the benefits of treatment? Similarly in research it is not possible to fund every research project, so how should the choice between projects be made, and could the resource be better utilised elsewhere?

• Resource Allocation
• Resource Allocation (CMF File, 2002)

The following articles consider the limits of medicine, and whether it is sometimes taken too far:

• Beyond resonable boundaries?
• Health and the nation

The Hippocratic Oath was traditionally accepted as the 'ethical standard' by which all doctors practiced medicine. This has gradually been eroded over the years and is still a topic of debate amongst medics. Should they subscribe to an ancient ethical code? Are ethics relative and changeable - leaving old 'codes' non-applicable in modern society? Or is there some truth in ancient traditions that it is worth holding on to? The following set of articles explore aspects of medical oath taking:

• Swearing to Care?
• Doctors following Christ
• Hippocratic Medicine - preserving ancient values
• Why Ever Did I Take Up Medicine?