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72 : Sramaņa, Vol 57, No. 2/April-June 2006
ings, going on pilgrimages, etc. Such acts are in vogue even today since psychic disorders are often seen to improve by them, and the persons performing them gain in physical and mental health. It is, therefore, natural that many of the religious values and moral codes would form part and parcel of the medical ethics in ancient times as well. In Ayurvedic texts one finds wholesome and ample instructions for a healthy and pious mode of life. Definition of Ethics
Ethics is the science of moral values. Medical ethics consists of the moral principles which should guide members of the medical profession in their dealings with each other, with their patients and with society and the state.
In ancient Indian literature the word used for ethics was Sadvịtta, which etymologically means, the right physical, mental, and vocal conduct expected of the pious'. Caraka, the father of Indian medicine, advises everyone desiring peace and happiness to observe the rules of right conduct diligently. He who follows the ethical code, gains mastery over the senses and obtains a healthy body. He authoritatively advocates ethics as a part of personal hygiene. Vägbhatta too, claims that man can attain long and healthy life, wealth and fame, in this existence, and glory and higheres after death, by following the ethical code.*
The ancient sages framed the rules of ethics and built up early Indian society in such a way that the character could be moulded from the very childhood and the individual could grow into a useful citizen. The ethical training began at home with the parents, was extended to the schools through the teachers, and continued in professional life later with the help of the wise and leaders of society. The Aim of Indian Medicine
Although as a profession the medical practice provides a livelihood for the physician, the wise have condemned its being for that purpose only. Those who would sell their skills to make
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