Double Effect Principle
Also known asEffect Principle, Double · Principle, Double Effect · Principles, Double Effect · Doctrine of Double Effect · Effect Doctrine, Double · Double Effect Doctrine · Doctrine, Double Effect · Double Effect Rule · Rule, Double Effect · Principle of Double Effect · Rule of Double Effect · Effect Rule, Double
Definition
Guideline for determining when it is morally permissible to perform an action to pursue a good end with knowledge that the action will also bring about bad results. It generally states that, in cases where a contemplated action has such double effect, the action is permissible only if: it is not wrong in itself; the bad result is not intended; the good result is not a direct causal result of the bad result; and the good result is proportionate to the bad result. (from Solomon, Double Effect, in Becker, The Encyclopedia of Ethics, 1992)
MeSH classification
- K01.752.566.479.101
- N05.350.238
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Source: NIH MeSH 2026 (D034723) — National Library of Medicine, public domain. View official MeSH record ↗