Global health ethics: an introduction to prominent theories and relevant topics

Abstract

Global health ethics is a relatively new term that is used to conceptualize the process of applying moral value to health issues that are typically characterized by a global level effect or require action coordinated at a global level. It is important to acknowledge that this account of global health ethics takes a predominantly geographic approach and may infer that the subject relates primarily to macro-level health phenomena. However, global health ethics could alternatively be thought of as another branch of health ethics. It may then relate to specific topics in themselves, which might also include micro-level health phenomena. In its broadest sense, global health ethics is a normative project that is best characterized by the challenge of developing common values and universal norms for responding to global health threats. Consequently, many subjects fall within its scope. Whilst several accounts of global health ethics have been conceptualized in the literature, a concise demarcation of the paradigm is still needed. Through means of a literature review, this paper presents a two-part introduction to global health ethics. First, the framework of ‘borrowed’ ethics that currently form the core of global health ethics is discussed in relation to two essential ethical considerations: 1) what is the moral significance of health and 2) what is the moral significance of boundaries? Second, a selection of exemplar ethical topics is presented to illustrate the range of topics within global health ethics.

Addressing the Problems and Challenges of Medical Research During the Syrian Crisis

“…Challenges have been encountered when conducting research in developing countries where cultural perspectives often vary signi cantly from those of developed countries. These challenges include protecting the rights of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations while balancing the needs of the many (28). The same results have been found in this study, the Syrian community is not interested in medical research and have not found it useful, and the Syrian researchers were not working on research that have an application in real life.…”

Perspectives and Solutions from Clinical Trainees and Mentors Regarding Ethical Challenges During Global Health Experiences

“…In-country mentors' voices and wisdom need to be elevated and incorporated in a longitudinal way [12]. Instilling global health ethics training is timely and crucial, and requires vigilance and supervision [14].…”

Teaching Corner: The Prospective Case Study

“…In addition, graduate students in global health programs reflect the intellectual and career diversity that is a hallmark of the field: Some are practicing medicine, others are returning Peace Corps volunteers, a few want to train for a career in health policy or diplomacy. Rather than attempt another definition of the emerging field of global health ethics (see Stapleton et al 2014 for a current perspective; see also two excellent textbooks by Benatar andBrock 2011 andPinto andUpshur 2013), this paper will focus briefly on pedagogy specific to teaching global health ethics. My discussion reflects the context of a two-credit semester core course in global health ethics, required for all students enrolled in a two-year Master of Science in Global Health (MSc-GH) degree program at Duke University in preparation for a 10-week summer research experience.…”