AMA Journal of Ethics^®

Wendy Orr recalls witnessing and speaking out against the abuses of detainees by the South African government during apartheid.

Although force-feeding prisoners might seem to be in the interests of beneficence and justice, international codes of ethics permit prisoners to refuse nourishment if they make a rational, uncoerced choice to do so.

Physicians who torture historically have not been held accountable by the law or medical profession, but national medical associations can promote accountability.

The American Medical Association Code of Medical Ethics’ opinions on professionalism and the use of social media, sexual misconduct in the practice of medicine, sexual or romantic relations between physicians and key third parties, and physicians’ duty to care for the poor.

Confusion over boundary lines and fear of hurting a colleague or of the colleague’s retaliation are obstacles to reporting ethical breaches.

Physician behavior that generates a patient complaint and ultimately leads to disciplinary action is both legally and ethically problematic—violating both regulatory rules and professional codes.

Medical specialty boards improve the quality and safety of health care, but they can overreach, and their board members express disapproval of board action by petition and through legal action.

It is important for young medical professionals to understand the many systems of professional regulation and their role in defining and enforcing standards of professional conduct.

AMA Code of Medical Ethics' opinions on assisted reproductive technology.