RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Bioethics for clinicians: 22. Jewish bioethics JF Canadian Medical Association Journal JO CMAJ FD Canadian Medical Association SP 219 OP 222 VO 164 IS 2 A1 Gary Goldsand A1 Zahava R.S. Rosenberg A1 Michael Gordon YR 2001 UL http://www.cmaj.ca/content/164/2/219.abstract AB JEWISH BIOETHICS IN THE CONTEMPORARY ERA EMERGES from the traditional practice of applying principles of Jewish law (Halacha) to ethical dilemmas. The Bible (written law) and the Talmud (oral law) are the foundational texts on which such deliberations are based. Interpretation of passages in these texts attempts to identify the duties of physicians, patients and families faced with difficult health care decisions. Although Jewish law is an integral consideration of religiously observant Jews, secularized Jewish patients often welcome the wisdom of their tradition when considering treatment options. Jewish bioethics exemplifies how an ethical system based on duties may differ from the secular rights-based model prevalent in North American society.