In this collection of eight provocative essays, the author sets forth his views on the need to replace patient-centered bioethics with family-centered bioethics. Starting with a critique of the awkward language with which philosphers argue the ethics of personal relationships, the book goes on to present a general statement on the necessity of family-centered bioethics. He reflects on proxy decisions, the effects of elder care on the family, the financial and lifestyle consequences of long-term care, and physician-assisted suicide from the perspective of the family.

Table of Contents

Introduction, Chapter 1. In Search of an Ethics of Personal Relationships (1989), Chapter 2. What About the Family? (1990), Chapter 3. The Problem of Proxies With Interests of Their Own (1992), Chapter 4. SUPPORT and the Invisible Family (1995), Chapter 5. Elder Abuse, Context, and Ethics (1996), Chapter 6. Dying at the Right Time - Reflections on (Un)Assisted Suicide (1996), Chapter 7. Autobiography and Narrative Ethics (1997), Chapter 8. Is There a Duty to Die? (1997), Chapter 9. Commentaries on Is There a Duty to Die? Nat Hantoff, A Duty to Die?, Dan Callahan, A Burden Upon Others, Felicia Cohn & Joanne Lynne, A Duty to Care, Larry Churchill, Seeking a Responsible Death, Chapter 10. Dying Responsibly - Reflections on These Commentaries, Chapter 11. Afterword: Responsibilities of Those Facing the End of Life

Author Biography

John Hardwig is Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Humanities at East Tennessee State University. This is his first book.