Applied Ethics: Euthanasia

Question 1

Euthanasia

Answer 1

Greek word for ‘good death’. It is the practice of ending life to reduce pain and suffering.

Question 2

Is euthanasia legal in the UK?

Answer 2

No

Question 3

Sanctity of life

Answer 3

All life is sacred because it is made in the image of God

Question 4

What does euthanasia contradict in the Bible?

Answer 4

The 10 Commandments - ‘thou shalt not murder’

Question 5

Why would NML oppose euthanasia?

Answer 5

Because it goes against the Primary Precept of ‘preserve life’

Question 6

Is Peter Singer for or against euthanasia?

Answer 6

For

Question 7

What did Peter Singer ask to do?

Answer 7

He went to the Australian court to ask to euthanise his mother who had Alzheimer’s so that he could donate the extravagant costs to looking after dolphins

Question 8

What is the Hippocratic oath?

Answer 8

The idea that a doctor will do everything in their power to make a patient better. Every doctor takes this. Euthanasia goes against it so is not allowed.

Question 9

Slippery slope idea

Answer 9

It could lead to the involuntary euthanasia of individuals undesirable, as to not be a burden on others.

Question 10

Is sanctity of life pro-life or pro-choice?

Answer 10

Pro-life

Question 11

Quality of life

Answer 11

Suggests that what is important is the happiness and fulfilment a person experiences, not just existing.

Question 12

Is quality of life pro-life or pro-choice?

Answer 12

Pro-choice

Question 13

Personhood

Answer 13

This is what makes a person, awareness of self, capacity to function

Question 14

How does situation ethics feel towards euthanasia?

Answer 14

Euthanasia can be justified if it will bring about the most loving outcome for the patient and others around them. It looks at the individual more than anything else. Quality of life more important than sanctity of life.