Assisted Death: Examining Ethical and Legal Implications
Assisted death, also known as assisted suicide or aid in dying, is a growing topic of conversation in today’s society. The decision to end one’s life with the assistance of another is complex and controversial, and it has far-reaching implications for both individuals and society. In this article, we will examine the ethical and legal considerations of assisted death, as well as the psychological, social, and spiritual implications.
The ethical considerations of assisted death are vast and varied. On one hand, some argue that it is wrong to take a life, even if it is with the consent of the individual. On the other hand, some argue that assisted death is a matter of personal autonomy and a person’s right to choose when and how they die. In addition, many believe that assisted death should be allowed in cases where a person is suffering from a terminal illness or in unbearable pain.
The legal considerations of assisted death are equally complex. In the United States, assisted death is currently illegal in most states, although some states have passed laws that allow for “aid in dying.” In other countries, such as Canada and many European countries, assisted death is legal in certain circumstances. There is a wide range of opinions on the legality of assisted death, and the laws vary significantly from country to country.
The psychological, social, and spiritual implications of assisted death are also important to consider. For individuals, assisted death can bring a sense of peace and relief, but it can also bring feelings of guilt and regret. For families and friends, it can bring a sense of closure, but it can also bring feelings of sadness and grief. From a spiritual perspective, assisted death can be seen as a way to find peace and acceptance in the face of suffering.
In conclusion, assisted death is a complex and controversial topic, and it has far-reaching implications for individuals, families, and society as a whole. It is important to consider the ethical, legal, psychological, social, and spiritual implications when discussing assisted death.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ethics/code/index
Emanuel, E. J., & Emanuel, L. L. (2017). Aid in Dying: A New Ethics for the Last Stages of Life. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/aid-in-dying-a-new-ethics-for-the-last-stages-of-life-2017091812508
Pereira, J., & Tavares, D. (2015). Assisted Dying and the Right to Die with Dignity: A Utilitarian Perspective. Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics, 24(03), 377-386. doi: 10.1017/S0963180130000360
Thompson, M., & Bittle, S. (2020). Assisted Dying in the United States: A State-by-state Analysis. American Journal of Bioethics, 20(5), 3-15. doi: 10.1080/15265161.2020.1735164