AMA Journal of Ethics

Why Does the History of Circadian Rhythms Matter for Sleep Today?

A paradigm shift in circadian science is underway, exposing ethical tensions from a legacy of pervasive neglect of circadian disorders. This article canvasses ethical questions about stigma, justice, and accommodation that should be formally recognized to reconceive circadian care. Responding…

When Should Pharmacological Interventions for Insomnia Be Recommended?

This commentary on a case describes how social determinants of health also contribute to insomnia and then suggests how to balance risks and benefits of different strategies for managing chronic insomnia. Behaviorally induced insufficient sleep syndrome can exacerbate morning side…

We’re All Healthier Under a Starry Sky

A star-filled sky has long been a source of awe and inspiration, and its loss adversely affects human, nonhuman, and environmental health. In one generation, this majestic nighttime overstory has been lost due to national and international overuse of light-emitting…

How Should Clinicians Partner With Families to Promote Children’s Sleep Health?

Short sleep duration, poor sleep quality, and irregular timing of sleep are prevalent sleep troubles for children, but fully assessing children’s sleep environments and effectively promoting children’s overall sleep health is nearly impossible during brief clinical encounters. This commentary on…

Ethics Talk: Sleep as a Vital Sign

This activity is comprised of five multiple-choice questions based on the content of an AMA Journal of Ethics podcast about sleep health and how we can all help us learn to sleep better. The featured guest is Lauren Hale, PhD,…

Government Obligations and the Negative Right to a Healthy Urban Environment

Urban development often generates noise and light pollution, reduces green space, produces heat islands, and increases population density that can exacerbate crime, disease transmission, anxiety, and stress. This article argues that individuals and communities have rights to not have their…

Ethics Talk: Therapeutic Music and Peace in Health Care

This activity is comprised of five multiple-choice questions based on the content of an AMA Journal of Ethics podcast about therapeutic music and peace in health care. The featured guests are Daniel Levitin, PhD, neuroscientist, cognitive psychologist, and author of…