Philosophy Applied Ethics Questions Medium
Assisted suicide, also known as euthanasia, is a highly debated and controversial topic in the field of applied ethics. It involves intentionally aiding or providing the means for someone to end their own life, typically due to a terminal illness or unbearable suffering. The ethical issues surrounding assisted suicide revolve around autonomy, the sanctity of life, the role of healthcare professionals, and the potential for abuse.
One of the main ethical concerns in assisted suicide is the principle of autonomy. Advocates argue that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including the choice to end their suffering through assisted suicide. They believe that respecting a person's autonomy is crucial in promoting their dignity and personal freedom. However, opponents argue that the value of life should take precedence over individual autonomy, as life is inherently valuable and should be protected.
The sanctity of life is another ethical issue in assisted suicide. Many religious and moral traditions emphasize the inherent value and sacredness of human life, considering it inviolable. Opponents of assisted suicide argue that intentionally causing death goes against this principle and undermines the intrinsic worth of every human being. They believe that society has a duty to protect and preserve life, even in the face of suffering.
The role of healthcare professionals is also a significant ethical concern in assisted suicide. Physicians, who are typically involved in the process, face a moral dilemma between their duty to preserve life and their obligation to relieve suffering. Some argue that physicians should prioritize their patients' well-being and provide them with the means to end their suffering. Others believe that healthcare professionals should not be involved in intentionally causing death, as it contradicts their professional oath to do no harm.
Furthermore, the potential for abuse is a critical ethical issue in the field of assisted suicide. Critics argue that legalizing assisted suicide may lead to a slippery slope, where vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or disabled, could be coerced or feel pressured to choose death over life. They fear that the availability of assisted suicide could undermine the value of palliative care and other alternatives that aim to alleviate suffering without ending life.
In conclusion, the ethical issues surrounding assisted suicide are complex and multifaceted. The tension between autonomy and the sanctity of life, the role of healthcare professionals, and the potential for abuse all contribute to the ongoing debate. Finding a balance between respecting individual autonomy and protecting the value of life is a challenge that requires careful consideration of the ethical implications involved.