Bioethics in a Liberal Society

Issues concerning patients' rights are at the center of bioethics, but the political basis for these rights has rarely been examined. In Bioethics in a Liberal Society, Thomas May offers a compelling analysis of how the political context of liberal constitutional democracy shapes the rights and obligations of both patients and health care professionals. May focuses on how a key feature of liberal society--namely, an individual's right to make independent decisions--has an impact on the most important relational facets of health care, such as patients' autonomy and professionals' rights of conscience.

"May's book is a helpful overview and introduction to the political framework of bioethics decision making within a liberal society. It touches explicitly on the issues of perceived and actual lack of competence, substituted decision making, advanced directives and the important roles of ethics committees and consultants. There is no doubt that this book marks an important contribution to the literature."--Metapsychology