This book investigates the complex ethical and humanistic considerations inherent in critical care medicine. Edited by Stuart J. Youngner, a recognized figure in bioethics, the work draws upon a range of perspectives to explore the values that should guide medical professionals and institutions when treating critically ill patients. It examines the tension between technological advancement and the preservation of human dignity, and questions how best to navigate these profound challenges.

This collection is recognized for its rigorous examination of the ethical landscape within critical care. It is understood to offer a foundational text for professionals and students grappling with the moral complexities of intensive medicine. The work is valued for its depth in exploring the humanistic dimensions often overshadowed by technological advancements in the field.