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Article: Nonmaleficence
- Article from:
- Encyclopedia of Public Health
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NONMALEFICENCE
The term "nonmaleficence" derives from the ancient maxim
primum non nocere
, which, translated from the Latin, means "first, do no harm." Professionals in the health sciences, and in public health practice in particular, have a tradition of utilitarian approaches, meaning that the greatest good should be accomplished through any public health action. Obligations not to harm others (e.g., through theft, disablement, or killing) are clearly distinct from, and usually more stringent than, obligations to help others (e.g., by providing benefits, protecting interests, and promoting welfare). For example, the obligation not to injure others is a societal expectation, whereas the ...