Sissela Bok | Lying and Lies to the Sick and Dying
Bok separates the question of moral truth from the larger domain of truth versus falsity. Deception requires intent to mislead with statements believed to be false by the liar, resulting in the power to affect the deceived's beliefs, actions, and choices with distorted information. Bok examines common paternalistic excuses for lying, allegedly committed in the "best interest" of the deceived. Concluding with a focus on the doctor-patient relationship, Bok describes how the increasing call for patient autonomy is shifting the doctor's priority of doing no harm to the patient's right to truthfulness.
-Traditionally, avoiding harm to a patient has been given ___________ priority than being truthful in the doctor-patient relationship.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Traditionally, avoiding harm to a patient has been given higher priority than being truthful in the doctor-patient relationship, as doctors often prioritized the patient's well-being over complete honesty.