Chapter 16 My brain disease made me do it: Bioethical implications of the brain disease model of addiction
James CounihanAbstract
This chapter reviews basic ideas and principles of bioethics and examines the bioethical implications of the brain disease model of addiction (BDMA) based on the assumption that the BDMA is a valid and accurate representation of the causes of addiction.
Utilizing the framework of Principlism developed by Beauchamp and Childress, the chapter raises questions about the potential ethical quandaries that may result if clinicians and researchers accept the BDMA as it is currently formulated by its proponents.
The discussion is framed in the context of a worldwide rise in populist governments and approaches, and the implications of the BDMA within this sociopolitical context. It is intended to stimulate discussion and research into the bioethical implications of the BDMA rather than presenting conclusions about them.
Author
Frederick Rotgers - ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0046-6049
Book
Evaluating the Brain Disease Model of Addiction is available from:
