The Power and Purpose of Public Health Law and Ethics

Defining the Fields for a New Era

In the ever-evolving landscape of public health, a new era of transformative legal and ethical changes has emerged. The fourth edition of "Public Health Law and Ethics: Power, Duty, Restraint" illuminates these shifts, empowering a new generation to navigate this complex sphere.

"So much has changed in the intervening quarter century," state authors Lindsay F. Wiley and Lawrence O. Gostin. "Interest in public health law has exploded, and public health ethics has become more firmly established."

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

The pandemic, political polarization, and the erosion of trust in science have created a volatile environment. "Our nation is on the cusp of momentous changes," write the authors, "while our polity is deeply divided."

A Framework for Ethical Action

Amidst these challenges, the book provides a much-needed framework for ensuring public health interventions are scientifically sound and ethically sound. It addresses contemporary issues such as chronic diseases, vaccine safety, and racial justice, while also exploring the balance between governmental powers and individual rights.

Experts Weigh In

"Social justice must be prioritized as a core value of public health ethics," emphasizes Wiley and Gostin. "Our work is informed by careful analysis of public health legislation, regulations, judicial opinions, and scholarly research from multiple disciplines."

The Time for Action Is Now

"These issues are now more critical than ever," concludes the authors. "This foundational book offers a conceptual framework for ensuring public health interventions are based on sound scientific evidence and consistent with ethical values."

About the Authors

Lindsay F. Wiley is Professor of Law and Faculty Director of the Health Law and Policy Program at UCLA School of Law.

Lawrence O. Gostin is Distinguished University Professor and Founding O'Neill Chair in Global Health Law at Georgetown University. He is also Director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Public Health Law and Human Rights.