Patient autonomy is an important concept in the clinical context, but the idea in contemporary bioethics discussions is often muddled. By looking closely at the ideas of Rosseau, Kant, and Mill, Autonomy and Patients' Decisions traces the modern concept of autonomy from its historical roots. Charting the changes in notions of autonomy in Beauchamp and Childress's seminal Principles of Biomedical Ethics to provide an overview of how autonomy has been viewed in the field, Merle Spriggs then identifies the four distinct notions of autonomy being referred to in contemporary discussion. The examination of these notions, especially the "descriptive psychological" account, in relation to case studies provides a clear concept of autonomy, compatible with both consequentialist and rights-based theories of ethics. This book provides a clear understanding of patient autonomy and will prove essential reading for health care professionals, bioethicsts, and philosophers.

About the Author
Merle Spriggs is Ethicist at Murdoch Childrens Research Institiute, Australia.

Reviews
Respect for autonomy is a core principle of modern medical ethics. But what is autonomy? In Autonomy and Patients' Decisions, Merle Spriggs brings clarity and intelligence to a vexed issue. The historical background she provides reveals how the muddles arose, and the approach she suggests offers a promising way forward. -- Peter Singer, Princeton University
Autonomy is the most widely appealed to concept in contemporary bioethics, but it is arguably the least well understood. This book is a great resource for developing a more sophisticated understanding of this much contested concept. I thoroughly recommend it. -- Lynn Gillam, University of Melbourne



Book Information
ISBN 9780739109182
Author Merle Spriggs
Format Hardback
Page Count 288
Imprint Lexington Books
Publisher Lexington Books
Weight(grams) 612g
Dimensions(mm) 228mm * 161mm * 31mm