Initial Post
The question of euthanasia is a controversial issue considering the religious perspective and a division on the subject by physicians. For the former, it brings into view the issue of mortal sin, while for the latter, it bears arguments considering physician ethical codes. Assessment of the two facilitates my perspective on the subject.
Euthanasia that is mercy-killing is a controversial issue considering the Christian and physician perspectives. According to Daskal (2018), it regards painlessly killing a suffering individual using treatment withdrawal measures or life-support measures. It is a suicidal act given the voluntary ending of life. Christianity opposes such actions with the sixth commandment stating, “Do not murder” (Exodus 20:13, The New King James Version). According to Christianity, life is a sanctity given; it is a gift from God; thereby, He has the authority to give or take it. Likewise, physicians who oppose euthanasia argue that they must protect life as provided in the physicians’ ethical codes ( Hanson et al., 2018). I believe the subject requires a critical lens; some cases involve terminal illnesses where death is inevitable. I would recommend consideration of mercy-killing as a last resort after considering all viable options.
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Euthanasia or mercy-killing is a controversial issue with Christianity and opposing physician citing disobedience to God’s commandment and disregard for physician ethical provisions, respectively. I recommend case-to-case consideration as a last resort in cases of inevitable death bearing much suffering.
Response to Crystal
Indeed, the debate concerning euthanasia has the potential of drawing multiple arguments with consideration of religion. The student accurately describes euthanasia as mercy-killing and suicide as purposeful life-taking. I concur that suicidal acts are sinful, and indeed the bible posits the necessity of individuals to exercise perseverance in suffering. The student rightfully submits that God provides good after suffering, which He utilizes to grow our faith and indeed walks with us through the journey. I agree that a suicidal act violates God’s commandment curtailing murder. Indeed, some perceive consideration for the subject as a case-by-case consideration. However, I do not entirely agree with the student’s conclusion as I would advise for critical assessment alluding to a case-by-case reflection.
Response to Elkana
Indeed, God is the creator and giver of life; therefore, bears the authority to give and take it. I somewhat agree with the student’s position that ending one’s life goes against God’s provisions that communicate a Christian perspective. Indeed, Christians perceive suicide as sinful with the sanctity of human life, backing the argument coupled with consideration of the act as ethically wrong. I agree with the student’s position that the euthanasia moral correctness is debatable on bioethics principles. However, I would have added the underlying element regarding physician commitment to protect life as issued by those opposed to the act. I concur Christianity disqualifies any form of suicide though I can’t entirely agree with the student’s conclusion considering terminal illnesses that are not treatable.
Response to Lisa
Indeed, suicide, whether assisted or voluntary, is a radical act that is prone to the motive of ending suffering. I concur the bible sees the subject as sin irrespective of circumstance with the provision that suffering issues victims’ lessons. The student rightfully argues that suicide affects not only the victim but also close relations, making it difficult to assess the subject. I agree with her opinion of not committing suicide based on hardships; however, advising for mercy-killing in case of inevitable death in terminal illnesses. Indeed, it eases pain for victims though I’m afraid I have to disagree with consideration and understanding for such plight for an injured soldier from battle. I agree individuals must seek alternatives with comprehension for humanity to view death as an option though pegged on individuals’ views on the subject.
References
Daskal, S. (2018). Support for voluntary euthanasia with no logical slippery slope to non-voluntary euthanasia. Kennedy Institute of Ethics Journal, 28 (1), 23-48.
Hanson, R. K., Mautz, R. D., & Betts, J. (2018). Physician-assisted suicide-homicide or death with dignity? Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics, 15 (4), 150-154.
