Clinical bioethics: science and humanity <b>[Abstract in English]</b>

Abstract

Objective: Pre-modern medicine emphasized harmony between the universe and nature and everything was believed to be possible to those physicians that were able to interpret signs and symptoms. As of the invention of the stethoscope, an investigative process was initiated which included observation of the inside of the living body. Throughout time, medicine has been impregnated by technology and, currently, the so-called techno-science is omni-present. The doctor-patient relationship shifts into second place or is totally absent. We must develop as intellectuals with a new perception capable of critically judging this new form of medical practice based principally on technology. This paper aims is to consider, in the light of clinical bioethics, a new way to practice medicine as an attempt to restore the more humane side of medical science.
Methods: Information from the Medline and LILACS databases going back 10 years was consulted. Also, a review of literature available in Brazil was carried out in reference to the themes of medicine, bioethics, science and humanity.
Results and conclusion: We conclude that the Medicine is not just a science, but also an art. In certain situations, it demands making value judgments. Clinical bioethics is becoming a guide that will help find the way to combine techno-scientific and biomedical knowledge with philosophical knowledge. Through clinical bioethics it is possible to bring more humane aspects to the art of medicine.
KEY WORDS: BIOETHICS; ETHICS, CLINICAL; PHYSICIANPATIENT RELATIONS; MEDICINE/trends.