Euthanasia Flashcards
Euthanasia
Intentional ending of a life, usually with the intention of ending suffering
Arguments for euthanasia
PRIVACY - death is a private matter and the state shouldn’t interfere with someone’s right to die
EXPENSES - expensive to keep incurable people alive. These resources could be used to treat people who could live
ANIMALS - putting down animals is seen as an act of kindness, the same treatment should be available for humans
SUICIDE - suicide was legalised in 1961, surely those who want to end their life but aren’t able bodied should be able to do so through medical help
Arguments against euthanasia
SANCTITY OF LIFE - euthanasia would weaken society’s respect for the value and importance for human life
PRESSURE - some people may feel pressured/like a burden to their family and friends and request euthanasia when it isn’t really what they want
RESEARCH- would discourage new research for cures and treatments for terminally ill
PALLIATIVE CARE - is available which reduces pain and allows a happier, more cared for death
Active euthanasia
Using something to do it eg lethal injection, drugs
Passive euthanasia
Stopping medical treatment to let a patient die eg turning off life support, disconnecting feeding tubes etc
Voluntary euthanasia
Patient wants to die and says so
Involuntary euthanasia
Patient can’t make decision/make their wish known, if eg they are in a coma/mentally disturbed/child. In this case family/doctors would choose
What is the Bible’s view on euthanasia?
UNCLEAR/DISAGREE - there are two occasions where euthanasia is described, but verses argue the Bible is against euthanasia
“A woman dropped an upper millstone on his head and cracked his skull. He said “draw your sword and kill me!’ So the servant did” - Judges 52-55
“Your Father in Heaven is not willing that any of these little ones shall perish” - Matthew 18:12-14
“A woman that was diseased touched his garment and she was made whole from that hour” - Matthew 9:20-22
What is the Catholic Church view on euthanasia?
DISAGREE - euthanasia is morally unacceptable as it involves taking of human life. They believe sick people need love and care through palliative care
What is the Presbyterian Church view on euthanasia?
DISAGREE - support palliative care as an alternative
Palliative care
Medical, emotional, psychosocial or spiritual care given to a person who is terminally ill and is aimed at reducing suffering rather than curing
Who is Dame Cicely Saunders?
The founder of the hospice movement believed euthanasia isn’t needed because effective pain control is always possible
