Current characterization of conscientious objection: a critical and renewed proposal

Abstract

This article characterizes “conscientious objection” – surrounded by controversies and marked by the absence of a unified definition – and the limits of its exercise. From a critical literature review approach, the objective is to propose a definition for the term. For such, situations where conscientious objection is wrongly invoked or serves as a pretext for unethical behavior were identified, and an attempt to establish the elements that truly compose such objection was made. The proposed concept intends to contribute to clarifying the matter and establishing fair limits to the ethical exercise of this right.