Dr. Jack Kevorkian and the Hippocratic Oath
More than 2000 years ago Hippocrates who was known as the founder of medicine established
a code of behavior for medical students. It is still recited by students about to enter
medical practice today.
The Hippocratic Oath addresses three major points. The first of these states that no
deadly medicine should be given to anyone by diagnosis or if asked. The emphasizes the
belief that no sician is to aid in the death of another person. Another major point in
the Hippocratic Oath is that any houses entered by a physician should be entered for the
benefit of the sick only with no acts of mischief or corruption taking place. Finally the
oath states that anything seen or heard in connection or not in connection with a
physicians practice should not be divulged. this means that all information given to a
physician during practice or not during practice should be kept secret.
One major point of the Hippocratic Oath is addressed in the today's news. Dr. Jack
Kevorkian who repeatedly ignores the section of the oath dealing with the harming or
killing of an individual. His assistance in the suicide of 39 persons, breaks the very
backbone of the Hippocratic Oath.
Although Hippocrates Oath was written a long time ago, its major points and principles
still should be followed by physicians today. Such principles enforce doctors to perform
in a way that follows the basic guidelines of modern society
As you can see by this essay the Hippocratic Oath Although 2,000 years old still should
be abided by today. Its major points and principles outline the way medical physicians
should present themselves. Dr. Jack Kevorkian's actions violate the Hippocratic Oath and
all that is stated within it.
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