Lecture, five hours. Interplay of social, economic, cultural, legal, and political forces in the U.S. form background for study of ethical issues related to role of nurses as advocates for social justice and safe, effective, high-quality patient-centered care in contemporary society today. Analysis situated within context of history of nursing, with emphasis on human rights, civil rights, and patient rights. Discussion of evolution of professional nursing within healthcare arenas in relation to ethical principles, cultural competence, evidence-based practice, and human diversity. Letter grading.