What is euthanasia?
literally means “good death”
painlessly killing someone, often to relieve people from suffering
What are the different types of euthanasia?
voluntary:
- terminally ill patients asks a doctor or friend to help them die peacefully and with dignity
- known as ‘mercy killing’ or ‘assisted suicide’
involuntary:
- person is unable to make decisions or express an opinion, e.g. in a coma
- someone else decides to end their life on behalf of the person
What is the difference between active and passive euthanasia
active:
- something is done to deliberately end a person’s life
- pills are taken or injects are given to stop the heart
passive:
- something that could be done to prolong life isn’t done
- this speeds up death
- includes not administering medical treatment
What are the pro-life arguments?
when Jesus was on earth he brought life and healing, never death
parable of the good Samaritan shows we should do everything we can to help those in need
“do not murder” - only God can decide on death
it is worth enduring the sufferings of this life for enjoying eternity in heavan
What are the pro-choice arguments?
Jesus taught Christians to be compassionate - it is compassionate to end a person’s suffering
many Christians believe passive euthanasia is acceptable - intention is not to put to death but to relieve pain
Jesus - “blessed are the merciful” - euthanasia is merciful
self determination - people should be able to choose if they want to die
