Muted Ethics
Sukhit Phaosavasdi MD*, Surasak Taneepanichsicul MD*, Yuen Tannirandorn MD*, Vorapong Pupong MD*, Chumsak Pruksapong MD*, Aurchart Kanjanapitak MD*
Affiliation : * Members of Medical Association of Thailand
The authors stayed in the shadow of the recent Thai social revolution. They observed the change
closely but did not take an active part. At times, the authors, mentally supported the people doing the
revolution(1), but at other time, they opposed them (2). At last, after a long reflection, the authors reached the
conclusion that anyone who got involved in the social revolution and gave up should be blissful.
While the old adage that states to think twice at bed time is always good, sometime it is difficult. When
one is stressed with complicated matters all day, confused, disappointed, scolded, insulted, tricked, has the
wrong information and is faced with bad tempers, it is very difficult to be able to think clearly. When all these
matters happen simultaneously and continuously in failing surroundings, how could anyone get the right
conclusion before they go to sleep, thus the old adage is even more difficult to follow.
As changes are slowing down, the time to think twice is upon us now.
Anyone who does not respect the others’ right either vocally or by threatening means is against the
theories of ethics, the principles of Stuart Mill(3) and Emanuel Kant(4). Furthermore, if that person was a
physician, they would be breaking the principles of the Thai medical ethics, which are based on right, justice,
honesty, truth, beneficence and malfeasance(4). In the Thai population in general, should we believe Buddhist’s
Phrom Viharn 4 that shows us mercy, kindness, joy and neutrality, or should this completely disappear from
our mind?
Should doctor return to the socially acceptable behavior and maintain muted ethics?
Keywords : Muted ethics
