What do we expect from ethics in health promotion and where does Foucault fit in?

Author(s): Whitelaw, A.

Journal/Book: Health Educ Res. 1996; 11: Walton St, Journals Dept, Oxford, England OX2 6DP. Oxford Univ Press United Kingdom. 349-354.

Abstract: This paper comments upon Duncan and Cribb's ethical consideration of the Helping People Change project (this issue). We welcome this undertaking, suggesting that such an exercise is profitable in respect of both its general orientation towards ethics in health promotion and its introduction of the work of Foucault. In relation to the former, we seek to locate this work in a broader context, suggesting that the issues they raise have wider significance in relation to what we may expect of ethics. In relation to Foucault, we question the trend of using individual philosophers in general, and Duncan and Cribb's narrow characterization of Foucault's work in particular. By focusing on only one aspect of one man's work, they set up what we feel is a false polarization of views which leaves them (and their readers) in a position where they are ultimately forced to choose between different ethical styles. We feel that this is unnecessary and conclude by suggesting that a social constructionist approach can provide a pragmatic way for health promoters to deal with this diversity in ethical style.

Note: Article S Whitelaw, Univ Manchester, Sch Epidemiol & Hlth Sci, Manchester M13 9PT, Lancs, England

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