Euthanasia

Question 1

Assess the view that euthanasia is always morally wrong.

Answer 1

1) Absolutist nature of the strong sanctity of life principle is unhelpful with 21st century medical practice
2) Principles of quality and autonomy of life, provide a compassionate basis for voluntary/non-voluntary euthanasia.
3) Deontological insistence on a strict distinction between acts and omissions adds little value to the debate.

Question 2

‘Voluntary euthanasia is always morally acceptable.’ Discuss.

Answer 2

1) Absolutist nature of he strong sanctity of life principle is unhelpful with 21st century medical practice
2) Principles of quality and autonomy of life, provide a compassionate basis for voluntary/non-voluntary euthanasia.
3) Deontological insistence on a strict distinction between acts and omissions adds little value to the debate.

Question 3

Assess the view that non-voluntary euthanasia is
morally unacceptable.

Answer 3

1) Absolutist nature of he strong sanctity of life principle is unhelpful with 21st century medical practice
2) Principles of quality and autonomy of life, provide a compassionate basis for voluntary/non-voluntary euthanasia.
3) Deontological insistence on a strict distinction between acts and omissions adds little value to the debate.

Question 4

Critically assess the importance of sanctity of life in decisions about euthanasia.

Answer 4

1) Absolutist nature of he strong sanctity of life principle is unhelpful with 21st century medical practice
2) Principles of quality and autonomy of life, provide a compassionate basis for voluntary/non-voluntary euthanasia.
3) Deontological insistence on a strict distinction between acts and omissions adds little value to the debate.

Question 5

‘Quality of life is the only relevant concept in decisions regarding euthanasia.’ Discuss.

Answer 5

1) Strong sanctity of life less relevant
2) Principles of autonomy and quality of life are equally important concepts
3) More relevant than the method (Acts vs Omission)

Question 6

Assess the view that natural law is of no help with regard to the issue of euthanasia.

Answer 6

1)One aspect of natural law that is of little help to the issue of euthanasia is its dependence on a Christian worldview that
upholds the strong sanctity of life principle
2)Another aspect of natural law that is of little help to the issue of
euthanasia is the absolutist nature of the primary precepts,
preventing consideration of important concepts including autonomy and quality of life
3) Doctrine of double effect provides flexibility in an otherwise rigid theory, Natural Law’s
deontological distinction between acts and omissions is
ultimately unhelpful.

Question 7

Assess the view that situation ethics is of no help with regard to the issue of euthanasia.

Answer 7

1)
2)
3)