What is the ethical principle focused on assisting others and doing good?

The ethical principle that emphasizes assisting others and doing good is beneficence. This principle is foundational in the field of healthcare and social services, encouraging professionals to contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and communities. Beneficence involves taking actions that promote the interests and welfare of clients, facilitating their health, safety, and overall quality of life.

In practice, this means that professionals should actively seek to enhance the lives of those they serve, applying their knowledge and skills to provide effective interventions and support. Beneficence is rooted in the idea that it is not enough to simply avoid harm; rather, it is essential to take proactive steps to promote health and well-being.

In contrast to beneficence, non-maleficence focuses specifically on the obligation not to inflict harm on others. Justice relates to fairness and equity in the distribution of resources and treatment, ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need. Autonomy emphasizes the right of individuals to make their own decisions regarding their care and treatment. While these other principles are critical in ethical decision-making, they do not encapsulate the proactive intent of beneficence to assist others directly and contribute to their well-being.