The ethical legacy of Hippocrates

Abstract

The text analyses the ethical content of the Hippocratic Oath, evaluates its significance for modern-day medicine and answers the question of how relevant it is for today's physicians. The history of the Oath is explored from its origin to modern-day adaptations. The paper explains the difference of expressing moral norms through an oath, a promise and a code. The ethical contents of Hippocratic ethics are divided into three segments: the covenant, the code and decorum. The paper further discusses the interpretation of controversial parts on abortion, euthanasia and the use of surgery. In his other works, Hippocrates emphasises high morality and requires physicians to be virtuous, exemplary humanists and to preserve the honour of their profession. In spite of all its faults, the Hippocratic Oath continues to set an example for the medical practice by emphasising the responsibility of the physician for the well-being of the patient. It is necessary that physicians possess not only technical knowledge, but also ethical education, enabling them to make conscientious moral decisions. The Oath is old, non-authentic , modified, differently interpreted and incomplete, but remains relevant for modern-day biomedical ethics.