COMPOSING ARGUMENTS - EUTHANASIA

Question 1

ARGUMENT 1 - SAFEGUARDS

Answer 1

• Healthcare providers are banned from instigating conversations about VAD
• Relatives cannot request VAD on behalf of an individual
• However, these measures do not necessarily eliminate the possibility of patients being influenced or coerced by their loved ones in a private setting, where they are most susceptible.

Question 2

ARGUMENT 2 - POSSIBILITY OF ABUSE

Answer 2

• Patients can lead to pertain themselves as a source of burden to their family
• Euthanasia can be used to exploit the elderly, particularly those who are terminally ill. People who already feel like a burden to their family may be coerced into making a decision that they do not actually want.

Question 3

ARGUMENT 3 - MISTAKE

Answer 3

• Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) relies solely on the doctor, and although they are trained professionals, people can make mistakes. A patient’s diagnosis can be changed and treated, leading to a significant change in their life expectancy, whereas undergoing euthanasia could limit their lifespan.

Question 4

ARGUMENT 4 - CHANGE

Answer 4

• Euthanasia could transform the hospital environment into an unsafe and fearful environment for patients. The responsibility of doctors would shift from healing and preserving life to one of ending it, potentially disrupting the doctor-patient relationship.