What is Conscientious Objection? Conscientious objection (CO) is the refusal to perform a legal role or responsibility because of personal beliefs. It was first recognised with respect to military service and refers to the position taken by individuals who oppose participation in war. Such objections can take many forms, such as refusing to serve in combat, register for the draft, pay taxes tied to war allocations, or make any type of contribution to a war effort. Many conscientious objectors have been executed, imprisoned or sanctioned when their beliefs led to actions conflicting with their society's legal system or government. In health care, conscientious objection involves practitioners not providing certain treatments to their patients, based on reasons of morality or "conscience."
Dissecting Conscientious Objection
Dissecting Conscientious Objection
Dissecting Conscientious Objection
What is Conscientious Objection? Conscientious objection (CO) is the refusal to perform a legal role or responsibility because of personal beliefs. It was first recognised with respect to military service and refers to the position taken by individuals who oppose participation in war. Such objections can take many forms, such as refusing to serve in combat, register for the draft, pay taxes tied to war allocations, or make any type of contribution to a war effort. Many conscientious objectors have been executed, imprisoned or sanctioned when their beliefs led to actions conflicting with their society's legal system or government. In health care, conscientious objection involves practitioners not providing certain treatments to their patients, based on reasons of morality or "conscience."