What is meant by ‘Ethics’

‘Ethics’ is a code of behaviour governing a particular group (e.g. pain physicians). Compared with ‘morals’ it has a broader meaning, referring to the general nature of morals and moral choices. In this context, morals are defined as ‘a general truth’ or ‘rules of conduct with reference to standards of right and wrong’.

A more particular meaning attaches to consideration of standards as they relate to an individual or decision. The term ‘medical ethics’ may refer to the study of ethical problems in medicine, to the ethical habits or beliefs of practitioners, or to explicit codes governing professional behaviour.

The ethics of clinical pain management

The ethics of pain and its management has a long history. Greek and Roman philosophers inquired into questions such as ‘what is happiness?’ Epicurus was one such philosopher and he placed much emphasis on the avoidance of pain. Physical pain was considered the great barrier to happiness and fear of death became a source of anxiety. The context of pain in an experimental setting and at the end of life is still a source of debate. The questions: ‘what determines our own attitude to patient/subject comfort?’ and ‘what are the factors that interfere with rational decision making?’ are significant in this context.