What is the philosophy of the NHS? What are these fundamental principles? Where do they come from and why are they so important? This book tackles each of these questions and more. Expresses the concept that the health service, armed with a substantial philosophy of health, should drive and control medicine. The central theme is that the theoretical and practical nature of health services can and must be contested.

David Seedhouse is a truly original thinker and prolific author, highly regarded by health practitioners, teachers and students alike. Though David has a background in philosophy, his work is always focused on solving practical problems. Professor Seedhouse is best know for his writing on health and ethics, yet his work straddles many areas of social, philosophical and political concern. He has written or edited 14 books and produced over 200 book chapters, journal papers and other articles. His library includes the highly successful editions of Health: The Foundations for Achievement and Ethics: The Heart of Healthcare; the full list of his titles is given at the back of this book. His primary interest no lies in the development of software to enable transparent decision-making in healthcare, local democracy, schools and other social settings. The considerable practical impact of David's work can be seen - and engaged with - at www.values-exchange.com. David is Professor of Health and Social Ethics at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand and Professor of Health Care Analysis at Middlesex University, London. He is CEO of VIDe Ltd - www.vide.co.nz - and a popular keynote conference speaker internationally.