A Critique of Three Objections to Physician-Assisted Suicide

Article Abstract:

Objections can be raised to physician-assisted suicide (PAS) on the grounds that it differs from foregoing life support, but three perspective can frame the objections. First, patient self-determination may be more important than bodily integrity. Second, arguing PAS is a violation of physician responsibility denies physician responsibility taken for terminal sedation and foregoing life support. Finally, a patient may have more moral justification in deciding to end life when the patient is mentally competent than surrogate decision-makers have when the patient is mentally incompetent.

---

Of Assisted Suicide and "The Philosophers' Brief"

Article Abstract:

"The Philosopher's Brief" written by six distinguished philosophers was submitted to the Supreme Court as an argument to support physician-assisted suicide. It argues for a person's right to make decisions regarding life's value. However, the autonomy of individuals is a function of societal progress, and the social and economic inequalities in society do not guarantee that every individual has reached a valid autonomous position. Other matters, such as relieving pain near the time of death, should perhaps receive more societal concern than physician-assisted suicide.

Political aspects, Philosophy

---

Physician-Assisted Suicide: Two Moral Arguments

Article Abstract:

Two popular arguments against physician-assisted suicide are faulty. One argument makes the distinction between killing and allowing a patient to die. Physician intervention, however, is integral to both. A second argument distinguishes a physician's intent to perform an act and the ability to foresee what may ensue. All moral consequences, however, are not based on intentions.

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Pharmaceutical corporations and the duty to aid in HIV/AIDS epidemic. Are state anti-takeover laws ethical?
• Abstracts: Ethics of placebo-controlled trials in developing countries. Unethical perinatal HIV transmission trials establish bad precedent

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.