Bioethics for clinicians: 20. Chinese bioethics

Kerry W Bowman, Edwin C Hui

Canadian Medical Association Journal, CMAJ
Canadian Medical Association Journal

Abstract
Many of the assumptions implicit in a Western autonomy-based approach to bioethical deliberation may not be shared by Chinese Canadians. In traditional Chinese culture, greater social and moral meaning rests in the interdependence of family and community, which overrides self-determination. Consequently, many Chinese may vest in family members the right to receive and disclose information, to make decisions and to organize patient care. Furthermore, interactions between Chinese patients and health care workers may be affected by important differences in values and goals and in the perception of the nature and meaning of illness. Acknowledging and negotiating these differences can lead to considerable improvement in communication and in the quality of care.


Bowman KW, Hui EC. Bioethics for clinicians: 20. Chinese bioethics. Can Med Assoc J. 2000;163(11):1481-1485.