Ethics and the Good Doctor Character in the Professional Domain

Ethics and the Good Doctor brings together existing literature and an analysis of empirical research conducted by the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues to examine the ethical nature of medical practice and explore medicine as a virtuous profession. The book is based on the idea that medical practice is an inherently moral profession, in which notions of trust, care and meaningful relationships form the foundations of being a good doctor. By taking into account the ethical dimensions of medical practice that have come under greater scrutiny and pressure over recent years, this book explores how personal and professional character is understood, enacted, and experienced by medical practitioners at various stages of their career. Ethics and the Good Doctor situates and presents the empirical data in a way that is accessible to practicing doctors, medical students, and medical educators. Clear implications for policy, practice, and research are offered, ensuring this book will be of great interest to a range of stakeholders involved in medical practice, including those working in medical policy.

Contents Introduction Chapter 1 The Professions and Character Chapter 2 Ethics and Medical Practice Chapter 3 Medical Practitioners: Personal and Ideal Character Strengths Chapter 4 Medical Practitioners, Ethical Dilemmas and the Perspectives of Medical Educators Conclusion, Recommendations and Further Research References Appendices

Dr Sabena Jameel is a General Practitioner (family medicine) and is also Quality Lead and Medical Professionalism Lead for the University of Birmingham Medical School, UK. Andrew Peterson is Professor of Character and Citizenship Education and Deputy Director of the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues at the University of Birmingham, UK. James Arthur is Professor of Education and Civic Engagement and Director of the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues at the University of Birmingham, UK.