nonmaleficencemay
nonmaleficencemay is a conceptual variant of the ethical principle of nonmaleficence, articulated to emphasize the conditional nature of the obligation to avoid causing harm. The term derives from the Latin root "non maleficentem," meaning “not to do harm,” and combines it with the English modal "may," suggesting that the duty may depend on circumstances or professional judgment.
In medical ethics, nonmaleficence is one of the four core principles identified by Beauchamp and Childress,
The phrase is frequently encountered in policy discussions where risk assessment frameworks are employed. For instance,
Critics contend that the modal qualifier may undermine the moral clarity that the original principle intends,
Overall, nonmaleficencemay helps to contextualize the nonmaleficence principle, allowing for a realistic and graded application within