ABSTRACT
In Greece, medical practice and research are governed to a great extent by the Hippocratic tradition. Greek legislation and jurisprudence are in favour of absolute respect for human life and protection of the human body from serious injuries, even if the person himself consents to them. Research, however, is free in Greece and its value fully recognised even when its aim is the increase of scientific knowledge and not only the therapeutic benefit of the subject. Although the increasing progress of medical research and the ethical problems in Greek hospitals make apparent the need for Ethics Committees, these committees do not function yet in Greece except in two or three hospitals or Scientific Societies. Greek doctors have an obligation to seek the consent of their patients. This obligation comes from the Constitution according to which due respect should be paid to the person, and the autonomy of the individual should be respected.
