Exhibit 23



                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
                        -------------------------------



     We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement
and related Prospectus pertaining to the Becton, Dickinson and Company Global
Share Investment Program of our report dated November 8, 1994, with respect to
the consolidated financial statements and schedules of Becton, Dickinson and
Company included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended September
30, 1994, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                             /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
                                             -----------------
                                             ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Hackensack, New Jersey
November 7, 1995