euthanasia and dying well (key beliefs) Flashcards
catholic teaching on the meaning of death and dying well
Catholics believe that death is not the end and is ‘life changed not ended’. At the end of life they should prepare for death through prayer, acts of love and the Sacraments in the hope that they die in a state of grace, reconciled with God and at peace with others. Catholics encourage palliative care so that the dying can receive pain relief and maintain their dignity and quality of life. God decides when life ends so Euthanasia is not acceptable to Catholics.
Catholic teaching on euthanasia
The Roman Catholic Church does not accept that human beings have a right to die as life is sacred, humans are Imago Dei and life is given and
ended by God. Suffering has a purpose in which Catholics share in Jesus’ suffering. However the Church regards it as morally acceptable to refuse
extraordinary and aggressive medical means to preserve life
Other religious teaching on euthanasia
Some Christians accept Euthanasia as they argue that Christianity requires them to respect every human being and their decisions. They also state that it is more loving to allow those who are suffering to die. In Judaism saving of life (pikuach nefesh) is an important mitzvah. Jewish law forbids active euthanasia and regards it as murder but it is permissible to switch off life support if it is impeding the natural process of death.
Arguements for euthanasia
Quality of life is more important than sanctity of life. Jesus told us to love our neighbour which may involve helping them to die. The Bible says ‘I want
you to be happy, always happy in the Lord’ (Phil 4:4). Humans have free will and autonomy and so should be able to decide whether to live or die. Weput animals down when they suffer.
Arguements against euthanasia
The 4th Commandment says ‘do not kill’. Jesus healed the sick, he did not kill them. Palliative care can reduce suffering Euthanasia may lead to a ‘slippery slope’ where the sick and handicapped are encouraged to die.
