Abstract
PurposeThe major thesis of this article is how social contract theory sheds light on the interaction of structure and agency. A minor thesis is to rebut the conclusions drawn from Stanley Milgram's famous obedience experiments.Design/methodology/approachThe argument rests in large part on an extensive review of authentic, empirical evidence found in studies of medical compliance.FindingsPatient agency is choosing not to comply with medical orders has over the years forced structural changes in the doctor–patient relations. These changes can be understand through the evolution of three kinds of social contract.Practical implicationsOne important implication is that non‐compliance can be a relational choice in one's lifeworld.Originality/valueNo other study has brought together Milgram's evidence with the medical compliance literature to demonstrate the integration of agency and structure.
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