Autonomy and Human Rights in Healthcare: An International Perspective is a group of essays published in memory of David Thomasma, one of the leading humanists in the field of bioethics during the twentieth century. A pioneer in the field of multidisciplinary research, having integrated major theological and philosophical traditions in the west with modern science, Thomasma was a role model to the authors who have devoted essays to his major avenues of inquiry. The authors represent many different countries and disciplines throughout the globe. The volume deals with the pressing issue of how to ground a universal bioethics in the context of the conflicted world of combative cultures and perspectives.
From the reviews:
"The concept of autonomy, as intended in the traditional Anglo-American bioethical discourse, is extensively discussed in the book ? . The contributions presented in the book are of interest for students and scholars trained in law, bioethics, and health care. The anthology can also represent a good basis for people who wish to start studying human rights in a clinical or research context. Thanks to the ability of the authors ? they are written clearly enough to be understandable to non-specialists as well." (Corinna Porteri, Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics, Vol. 31, March, 2010)
"This is a rich, powerful collection of essays dealing with important issues facing modern health care. ? begins with a series of excellent essays on human rights which explores the relationship of human rights, social policy and health care. ? The essays themselves are inspired by his work. ? This volume is a fitting testimony to his concerns and commitment, as the questions of human dignity have and will continue to play a central role in our debates about new, revolutionary health care technologies." (Kevin Wm. Wildes, Human Rights Reviews, Vol. 12, 2011)
