In bioethics, which principle is the obligation to act for the benefit of others?

In bioethics, which principle is the obligation to act for the benefit of others?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Justice
• C. Beneficence
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (C)

Beneficence means actively promoting the well‑being of others and taking actions that benefit them. In bioethics this drives decisions to help patients, relieve suffering, and improve health outcomes, always weighing the anticipated benefits against potential harms. For example, choosing a treatment that offers meaningful improvement in quality of life or extending life when the benefits outweigh risks embodies beneficence in practice. This principle is about doing good for others, beyond merely avoiding harm. Autonomy focuses on respecting individuals’ right to make their own decisions; nonmaleficence is about not causing harm; justice concerns fair and equitable distribution of resources. Beneficence specifically captures the obligation to act in ways that benefit others.

Beneficence means actively promoting the well‑being of others and taking actions that benefit them. In bioethics this drives decisions to help patients, relieve suffering, and improve health outcomes, always weighing the anticipated benefits against potential harms. For example, choosing a treatment that offers meaningful improvement in quality of life or extending life when the benefits outweigh risks embodies beneficence in practice. This principle is about doing good for others, beyond merely avoiding harm.

Autonomy focuses on respecting individuals’ right to make their own decisions; nonmaleficence is about not causing harm; justice concerns fair and equitable distribution of resources. Beneficence specifically captures the obligation to act in ways that benefit others.