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[Home] [Articles & Essays - G] [Newsletter E 14]
Ethics and human rights in intergenerational
relationships
‘First, do no harm’
By Dr Frans Gieles
In: Ipce newsletter E 14, October 2002
Since the mid-1990s, Ipce members have held discussions about ethics. I have listened to the
members. In this article, I will summarize the salient points of several opinions I have heard.
Introduction
“Ipce is a forum for people who are engaged in scholarly discussion about the
understanding and emancipation of mutual relationships between children or
adolescents and adults. In this context, these relationships are to be viewed from
an unbiased, non-judgmental perspective and in relation to the human rights of
both the young and adult partner.” (Ipce Mission Statement)
Human rights and a reasoned discussion are a fundamental basis for the following ethical
ideas about intergenerational relationships. One of these rights is that of choice of contacts and
relationships with other humans. Contact is necessary for humans, and relationships can enrich
life for both partners. This is the basis of reasonable ethical thought about intergenerational
relationships.
How much intimacy a contact or relationship has is in the first place a free choice for both
partners. This may differ according to the individuals and the situation. There is only one
general rule or principle that counts in every relationship: Do no harm.
But there is more to say. What follows are no general rules, nor commandments on tablets of
stone for eternity, but guidelines or thoughts, points to take into consideration, together with
the local mores, laws and customs in a given society and era. The result, an ethical idea about
an actual relationship, will differ with the people and the situation.
In the course of years, Ipce members have developed the following main guidelines or
principles.
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