A brief historical exploration of the evolution of medical ethics

Abstract

Ethics are an incredibly part of the practice of modern medicine. Most often, when people hear the term "medical ethics" they automatically think of the Hippocratic Oath. The Hippocratic Oath has been incredibly influential in shaping modern ethics, but it has not been the only influence on ethics. Medical ethics has to be fluid and open to change as the world they work in changes. This paper will explore the evolution of medical ethics in western medicine, starting with Hippocrates and his oath and moving through the historical eras. This paper will explore the powers and influences that shaped ethics and the various oaths and laws that came with the change.