Linking the teaching of professionalism to the social contract: A call for cultural humility

Abstract

Professionalism, which is fundamental to medical practice, must be taught explicitly. It is the basis of medicine's relationship to society, which most observers call a “social contract.” The social contract serves as the basis for society's expectations of medicine and medicine's of society. It therefore directly influences professionalism. The role of the healer is universal, but how professionalism is expressed will differ between countries and cultures due to differences in their social contracts. When professionalism is taught, it should be related to the different cultures and social contracts, respecting local customs and values.

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Notes on contributors

Richard L. Cruess

SYLVIA CRUESS, MD, is a professor of medicine, and RICHARD CRUESS, MD, is a professor of orthopedic surgery. Both are the members of the Center for Medical Education at McGill University.

Yvonne Steinert

YVONNE STEINERT, MD, is a professor of family medicine, Associate Dean for Faculty Development, and Director of the Center for Medical Education at McGill University.