ABSTRACT
Other-regarding acts, which-if not duty-driven-may be altruistic, are generally believed to be morally good (Beauchamp & Childress 2001). Even where an other-regarding act is based on a moral obligation it may still be praiseworthy (Glannon & Ross 2002). Importantly, such acts may also be the only way in which certain needs are capable of being met. Despite this, in the absence of a dependent relationship the law does not require even the slightest self-sacrifice.1 Even where there is a dependent relationship, extreme selfsacrifice, such as organ donation, does not form part of any legal duty. While the courts may approve of such ‘altruistic’ acts, and may condemn the callous bystander who does nothing to assist the imperilled victim of misfortune, there is no legal sanction for fiddling as your neighbour burns. Thus, the law will not require a competent adult to give so much as a drop of blood to help his less fortunate fellow.2
