Book contents
- The Nature and Limitations of Conscience in Healthcare
- Cambridge Bioethics and Law
- The Nature and Limitations of Conscience in Healthcare
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Table of Cases and Statutes
- Acknowledgements
- 1 Introduction
- 2 Conscience from First Principles
- 3 Respecting Conscience
- 4 Responsibilities of Conscience
- 5 Conscientious Provision and Objection
- 6 Complicity and Corporate Conscience
- 7 Regulating Claims of Conscience
- 8 Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index
- Cambridge Studies in Bioethics and Health Law
2 - Conscience from First Principles
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 September 2025
Book contents
- The Nature and Limitations of Conscience in Healthcare
- Cambridge Bioethics and Law
- The Nature and Limitations of Conscience in Healthcare
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Table of Cases and Statutes
- Acknowledgements
- 1 Introduction
- 2 Conscience from First Principles
- 3 Respecting Conscience
- 4 Responsibilities of Conscience
- 5 Conscientious Provision and Objection
- 6 Complicity and Corporate Conscience
- 7 Regulating Claims of Conscience
- 8 Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index
- Cambridge Studies in Bioethics and Health Law
Summary
This second chapter explores the nature of the conception of conscience. It provides a broad definition of conscience as requiring only that a decision be about an individual’s conduct, be based on a moral belief, and be inward-facing. The chapter also explores some of the major misconceptions about what is necessary for something to be a decision of conscience. It provides an overview of the role of conscience within moral reasoning as well as how conscience operates.
Information
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- The Nature and Limitations of Conscience in Healthcare , pp. 15 - 38Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2025
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