In Western medicine, the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence derive historically from the doctor-patient relationship, which for centuries was based on paternalism.

What does beneficence mean?

Beneficence is defined as an act of charity, mercy, and kindness with a strong connotation of doing good to others including moral obligation. All professionals have the foundational moral imperative of doing right. ... In health care, beneficence is one of the fundamental ethics.

What is the beneficent action?

the doing of active goodness, kindness, or charity, including all actions intended to benefit others. It is contrasted to benevolence, which refers to the character trait or moral virtue of being disposed to act for the benefit of others.