The book "Universal Ethical Principles of Medical Conduct in Islam" by Prof. Dr. Ali Muhyiddin al-Qaradaghi is one of the most foundational and scholarly studies in the field of bioethics. The book was primarily written to critique Western ethical theories and, in response, to propose a comprehensive Islamic theory that aligns with the values and objectives of Sharia (Islamic law).
The book is composed of four main sections: The first section is dedicated to defining terminology and analyzing medical, biological, and Sharia objectives. The second section discusses the efforts of early scholars and international organizations in establishing medical ethics. The third section provides a detailed critique of the four-principle theory (by Prof. Dr. Tom Beauchamp and Childress), which forms the basis of Western medical ethics. The fourth section, which is the core of the book, clarifies the theoretical framework of the general principles of ethics in Islam.
In this work, the author consolidates all medical ethics into three major principles:
The Principle of Benevolence (Ihsan): This includes performing good deeds, meticulousness in work, and innovation for the patient's benefit.
The Principle of Human Dignity: This encompasses respecting the patient's autonomy, protecting confidentiality, and respecting the human body, both living and deceased.
The Principle of Justice: This emphasizes equality in the distribution of healthcare services and the rights of all individuals.
The book stresses that ethics in Islam is not merely a means but a primary objective, and that a physician must always feel a sense of divine observation when dealing with patients. It also addresses contemporary issues such as organ transplantation, abortion, and the legal and Sharia-based responsibilities of physicians. This book is a rich resource for physicians, healthcare professionals, and Sharia scholars to gain a deep understanding of the relationship between religion and medicine.
Key details about the book:
Original Language: Arabic
Author: Ali Muhyiddin al-Qaradaghi
Translator (into Kurdish): Hemn Khurshid
Number of Pages: 439
Year of Publication (of the Kurdish translation): 2024
