Indigenous Health Ethics: An Appeal To Human Rights

This book explores the intersections of bioethics, human rights, and health equity, focusing on indigenous health as a human rights issue rooted in colonialism and subjugated indigenous knowledges.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2021
Publisher: World Scientific Europe Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate intersections of bioethics, human rights, and health equity, offering a rich and multifaceted exploration of these critical domains. Through the contextual lenses of nation-states, it presents global themes on rights, colonialism, and bioethics, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between these disciplines.

At the heart of the book lies a series of compelling propositions on indigenous health. Firstly, it is recognized as a fundamental human rights issue, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. Secondly, the book situates indigenous health within the broader politics of colonization, acknowledging the historical and ongoing impact of colonialism on indigenous communities and their health outcomes. Thirdly, it emphasizes the need to restore and honor subjugated indigenous knowledges, recognizing the valuable insights and traditions that have been marginalized and suppressed over centuries.

The book is organized into several chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of the intersection between bioethics, human rights, and health equity. The first chapter provides an overview of the historical context and the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities worldwide. It highlights the historical oppression, marginalization, and exploitation that have led to disparities in health outcomes and the lack of access to healthcare services for many indigenous populations.

The second chapter delves into the ethical implications of colonialism and the impact it has had on indigenous health. It examines the ways in which colonialism has perpetuated harmful practices, such as forced sterilization, medical experimentation, and the exploitation of indigenous knowledge and resources. The chapter also explores the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals and researchers in working with indigenous communities and addressing the legacy of colonialism.

The third chapter focuses on the rights of indigenous communities to control their own health and well-being. It examines the legal and political frameworks that have been established to protect indigenous rights, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and other international human rights instruments. The chapter also explores the challenges faced by indigenous communities in exercising their rights and the role of advocacy and activism in promoting their health and well-being.

The fourth chapter explores the role of bioethics in addressing the health disparities faced by indigenous communities. It examines the ethical principles and guidelines that apply to healthcare professionals and researchers working with indigenous populations, including the principles of respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. The chapter also discusses the ethical challenges that arise in conducting research with indigenous communities, such as the need for cultural sensitivity and the potential for harm or exploitation.

The fifth chapter examines the intersection of health equity and indigenous health. It explores the ways in which health equity can be achieved by promoting access to healthcare services, improving health outcomes, and addressing the social and economic determinants of health. The chapter also discusses the role of community-based healthcare and the role of indigenous communities in promoting health equity and reducing health disparities.

The sixth chapter explores the role of technology in promoting health equity and addressing the health disparities faced by indigenous communities. It examines the ways in which technology, such as mobile health clinics, telemedicine, and digital health technologies, can be used to improve access to healthcare services and promote health equity. The chapter also discusses the ethical considerations that arise in the use of technology in healthcare, such as privacy, security, and the potential for harm or exploitation.

The final chapter summarizes the key findings and conclusions of the book. It highlights the importance of recognizing the intersections of bioethics, human rights, and health equity and the need for a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to addressing the health disparities faced by indigenous communities. The chapter also calls for action to be taken to promote the health and well-being of indigenous communities, including the recognition of their rights, the restoration of their knowledge and traditions, and the implementation of policies and practices that promote health equity and reduce health disparities.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of bioethics, human rights, and health equity. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary framework for understanding the complex interplay between these disciplines and the challenges faced by indigenous communities worldwide. By recognizing the fundamental human rights of indigenous communities, the ethical implications of colonialism, and the need to restore and honor subjugated indigenous knowledges, the book offers a roadmap for promoting health equity and addressing the health disparities faced by these communities. The book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and activists who are committed to promoting the health and well-being of indigenous communities and working towards a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786348562