Conflict between Paternalism and Autonomy

Abstract

In the past, paternalism played an important role in making decisions at the end of life. However, in the modern era its significance has become unpopular as it require physicians to decide what is good or bad for the patient without considering patients wish and interest. This commentary article is based on a case study of a woman whose life was lost due to complications of pregnancy. The paper critically reviews this case study, and attempts to provide a reasonable and systematic framework to make sound decisions in similar cases.