Euthanasia

Question 1

Give the definition of euthanasia

Answer 1

The act of deliberately ending someone’s life to relieve pain or suffering.

Question 2

What are the 3 different types of euthanasia, and what do they mean?

Answer 2

Voluntary euthanasia - euthanasia conducted with the consent of the person suffering

Involuntary euthanasia - no consent given

Non-voluntary euthanasia - euthanasia carried out when a person is unable to give consent (such as in cases where they are unconscious or in a coma etc)

Question 3

What is the slippery slope argument relating to euthanasia?

Answer 3

The slippery slope argument relates to the fact that legalising euthanasia could lead to the gradual acceptance of more permissive euthanasia laws, and could lead to abuses. It may also be hard to draw the line (when should euthanasia not be permitted?)

Question 4

What are the key arguments in favour of euthanasia?

Answer 4

1. It ends extreme suffering, and it relieves someone from having to continue living with a bad quality of life
2. The ‘right to die’, which is the belief that individuals should have the right to choose to end their own life, especially in cases of severe illness or suffering.
3. The idea of autonomy would also be in favour of euthanasia, as its the principle that individuals have independence, and a right to make decisions about their lives.
4. Human dignity - some argue euthanasia is an expression of dignity, by allowing choice in the face of suffering.

Question 5

What are the main ethical arguments against euthanasia?

Answer 5

1. Sactity of life is the belief that human life is sacred and valuable, and should never be intentionally ended.
2. The slippery slope argument highlights the idea that allowing euthanasia in certain cases may lead to a gradual acceptance of more permissive euthanasia laws, potentially leading to abuses.
3. People dealing with severe illnesses or pain may be in a bad place/ negative mindset and choose euthanasia because they can’t see any good in living, therefore they may not be in the right state of mind to make this decision.
4. Legalising euthanasia may put pressure on people in bad situations and make them feel like it’s their only option.