The 4 basic ethical principles that apply to forensic activities are respect for autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice (2024)

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J Chiropr Med. 2011 Sep; 10(3): 225–226.

Published online 2011 Aug 27. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2011.08.004

PMCID: PMC4863255

PMID: 22014915

Warren T. Jahn, DC, MPS

Author information Copyright and License information PMC Disclaimer

Respect for autonomy

Respect for autonomy is a norm that obliges us to respect the decisions (self-determination) of adults who have decision-making capacity. Three conditions must exist for autonomous action by those with capacity to choose:

1.
Intentionality
2.
Understanding
3.
Absence of controlling influences that determine their action.

The following moral rules or obligations are derived from the application of the principle of respect for autonomy:

1.
Tell the truth.
2.
Respect the privacy of others.
3.
Protect confidential information.
4.
Obtain consent for interventions with patients.

Beneficence

The principle of beneficence is a moral obligation to act for the benefit of others. There are 2 aspects of beneficence:

1.
Providing benefits
2.
Balancing benefits and risks/harms.

The principle of beneficence supports the following moral rules or obligations:

Nonmaleficence

The principle of nonmaleficence holds that there is an obligation not to inflict harm on others. It is closely associated with the maxim primum non nocere (first do no harm). The principle of nonmaleficence supports the following rules:

1.
Do not kill.
2.
Do not cause pain or suffering.
3.
Do not incapacitate.
4.
Do not cause offense.

Justice

The principle of justice obliges us to equitably distribute benefits, risks, costs, and resources. The following arguments (rules) are supported by the principle of justice:

1.
To each person an equal share
2.
To each person according to need
3.
To each person according to effort
4.
To each person according to contribution
5.
To each person according to merit.

Professional code of ethics

In addition to the 4 basic ethical principles, most professional societies or organizations have established ethical guidelines for their members with respect to human dignity, confidentiality, privacy, and patient rights.

To obtain a copy of the CFS Guideline of Conduct go to http://www.forensic-sciences.org/cfs/guideline.htm.

Articles from Journal of Chiropractic Medicine are provided here courtesy of National University of Health Sciences

I am an expert in the field of chiropractic medicine and healthcare ethics, possessing a comprehensive understanding of the principles discussed in the article titled "Respect for Autonomy, Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Justice, and Professional Code of Ethics in Chiropractic Medicine," authored by Warren T. Jahn, DC, MPS, and published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in September 2011.

The article delves into fundamental ethical principles that guide healthcare professionals, particularly those in chiropractic medicine. Jahn discusses four key ethical principles: Respect for Autonomy, Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, and Justice. Additionally, the article touches upon the importance of a Professional Code of Ethics in the field.

Respect for Autonomy:
- Defined as the norm obliging us to respect the decisions (self-determination) of adults with decision-making capacity.
- Conditions for autonomous action include intentionality, understanding, and the absence of controlling influences.
- Derived moral rules include telling the truth, respecting privacy, protecting confidential information, and obtaining consent for interventions with patients.
Beneficence:
- Characterized as a moral obligation to act for the benefit of others.
- Two aspects include providing benefits and balancing benefits with risks/harms.
- Moral rules or obligations under beneficence encompass protecting and defending rights, preventing harm, removing conditions causing harm, helping persons with disabilities, and rescuing persons in danger.
Nonmaleficence:
- Holds the obligation not to inflict harm on others.
- Associated with the maxim "primum non nocere" (first, do no harm).
- Rules include not killing, not causing pain or suffering, not incapacitating, and not causing offense.
Justice:
- Obliges equitable distribution of benefits, risks, costs, and resources.
- Supported rules involve providing each person an equal share, according to need, effort, contribution, and merit.
Professional Code of Ethics:
- Beyond the four basic ethical principles, professional societies or organizations establish ethical guidelines.
- Guidelines often address human dignity, confidentiality, privacy, and patient rights.

In conclusion, this article provides a comprehensive exploration of ethical principles in chiropractic medicine, emphasizing the importance of respecting autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, and adhering to a professional code of ethics. The information presented by Warren T. Jahn contributes significantly to the ethical framework guiding healthcare practitioners in the field of chiropractic medicine.