Autonomie als Bezugspunkt einer universalen Medizinethik

Abstract

Definition of the problem In modern medical science, the ethical principle of respect for patient/proband autonomy has gained wide recognition. All international declarations which have been passed more recently clearly emphasize the patient's and test subject's autonomy. While this is an undeniably positive development, it also raises a number of questions. The answer to these questions determines whether autonomy should be regarded as a helpful, emancipatory or an overburdening, even hegemonic, principle. Arguments By drawing on examples from global medical ethics, the paper discusses the validity, interpretation, scope, and implementation of the principle of respect for autonomy. Conclusion Autonomy in modern societies has to be conceived as a social construct, not in the sense of a chimaera but as a sociocultural achievement. It relies on complex, historically contingent, and culturally determined interactions of societies, institutions, and individuals. © 2012 The Author(s).