A new AMA policy provide guidance for physician-scientists on dual-use research issues and reinforces the message that ethical conduct in scientific research ultimately rests with the individual researcher.

Many physicians assist others at great risk to their personal safety as part of Physicians for Human Rights.

The participation of physicians in torture around the world exposes the ineffectiveness of international declarations that condemn the practice.

Physicians have an ethical duty to provide safe and effective care to patients even when the care conflicts with their own personal values.

The journal editor introduces a theme issue on medicine and human rights by calling on physicians to speak out against worldwide human rights abuses.

Participation in acts of torture, despite the approval of a government agency, places physicians in a morally compromised position.

Presymptomatic genetic testing for neurodegenerative diseases can help patients make effective treatment decisions, but the medical profession needs to ensure that the increasing use of the tests is done responsibly.

Physicians must maintain strong communication lines and document discussions with patient surrogates to avoid confusion regarding end-of-life care and decisions for patients with irreversible brain damage.

A neuroscientist and a sociologist discuss the ethical concerns with common neurological medicines that are used to enhance or change behavior.

The history of the AMA's policy on anencephalic newborns as organ donors is a living example of what medical science can do sometimes conflicts with society's support or nonsupport of those possibilities.