AAPL and sociopolitical policy.

It has been part of the role of medical organizations in Western nations to develop position statements on various sociopolitical issues. Both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Medical Association have established position statements related to social policy, including capital punishment. In 2001, AAPL endorsed a moratorium on capital punishment. Recent calls for AAPL to endorse a recommendation to abolish the death penalty have produced further discussion and a diversity of opinion. The absence of a clear process to develop policy within AAPL complicates both the nature and the resolution of the discussions. Three questions are posed that will help AAPL shape this debate: (1) Do we have anything to contribute? (2) Is there a position consistent with our values? (3) Would a position promote or harm the goals and mandate of the organization?