The growth of evidence-based medicine has occurred against a backdrop of health care reform, managed care, cost containment and quality improvement, and clinicians have been urged to adopt the rigors of science while remaining true to their 'clinical judgment'. This incisive book reviews the history and conceptual origins of evidence-based practice and discusses key ethical issues that arise in clinical practice, public health and health policy. It is essential reading for all physicians, and practitioners in epidemiology and public health.