Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

This paper describes the concept of a do-gooder: a person who does unwanted good. It illustrates why doing-good is a problem and argues that patients should not be compelled to do what is best. It shows the ways in which doctors covertly do-good and offers a critique of these. The discussion focuses on the example of the treatment of patients who attempt suicide.

Original publication

DOI

10.1136/jme.23.2.108

Type

Journal article

Journal

J Med Ethics

Publication Date

04/1997

Volume

23

Pages

108 - 115

Keywords

Analytical Approach, Death and Euthanasia, Beneficence, Ethics, Medical, Euthanasia, Passive, Humans, Jehovah's Witnesses, Paternalism, Personal Autonomy, Physician's Role, Physician-Patient Relations, Social Responsibility, Social Values, Stress, Psychological, Suicide, Attempted, Treatment Refusal