A Problem Exists In Euthanasia

A PROBLEM EXISTS 5 EUTHANASIA EUTHANASIA

Every human being has that one person that they love and care about, and the last thing that they want to do is to see them in pain. However, this doesn’t give anyone a right to take that person’s life, and if you choose to do it, it doesn’t make it right. This is why this paper is going to look at euthanasia. Euthanasia, also famously known as mercy killing, refers to the painless and deliberate killing of a patient who is known to be suffering from an incurable and painful disease or who is in a coma. To some, it may look like a good way of letting their loved one rest from all the pain, but the big question is whether it is right?

When you consider all the implications on the feelings of the various people involved, it shouldn’t be a consideration at all. This paper seeks to look at the history and background of euthanasia, its legal status, and examine it as a complex problem from various perspectives. The debates concerning euthanasia and its legality date back to the 5th century BC in ancient Greece and Rome, where ethical debates about euthanasia took place. After the development of ether, many physicians advocated for the use of anesthetics to relieve patients' pain. In 1870, Samuel Williams proposed the deliberate use of anesthetics and morphine to end the life of a patient.

Since then, there have been ongoing major debates and arguments for and against euthanasia as a method of ending one’s life. Euthanasia remains illegal in most countries; however, some have legalized certain forms. According to ProCon (2016), there are two primary forms: active euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. Most countries prohibit both practices, yet some Western nations have legalized at least one form. Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands have legalized both practice types. Canada, Finland, and Switzerland have legalized physician-assisted suicide, while Colombia has only legalized euthanasia. This variation underscores the ongoing societal divide over euthanasia.

There are multiple problems associated with euthanasia as a means of ending life, particularly from social, ethical, and emotional perspectives. Socially, euthanasia carries significant implications for society at large. While some argue that it is a personal decision or within the rights of next of kin or individuals with power of attorney, the broader social impact cannot be overlooked. Medical professionals are trained to preserve life and uphold the trust relationship with patients and society. Legalizing euthanasia could undermine that trust, eroding the moral integrity of medical practitioners and compromising the fundamental obligation to protect life (Somerville, 2009).

Ethically, euthanasia raises profound moral questions. It tends to weaken the societal respect for human life, fragmenting the notion of sanctity and dignity. If life is seen as something that can be rightfully terminated based on personal or societal judgment, vulnerable groups—such as the elderly, disabled individuals, and those with mental health issues—may be unfairly discriminated against. These groups could be seen as burdens or less valuable members of society, risking a treatment that devalues their dignity and worth. Such a perspective promotes a dangerous dehumanization, where lives are considered less deserving of protection (BBC, 2014).

Emotionally and psychologically, euthanasia presents complex challenges. The decision to end life is not made lightly and often involves extensive moral deliberation, emotional strain, and psychological distress for all involved parties—patients, families, and healthcare providers. Professionals involved in euthanasia procedures often experience emotional trauma, requiring therapy and support. This underscores the gravity of the decision and highlights that euthanasia is not a simple act but a deeply complex moral dilemma requiring careful consideration and respect for human life.

In conclusion, euthanasia is a contentious issue rooted in historical debates and dynamic legal landscapes. The social, ethical, and emotional implications associated with it demonstrate that it is not a straightforward solution to suffering. Its legalization could threaten societal values that prioritize the dignity and sanctity of human life, especially vulnerable populations. Given the profound moral and emotional complexity, euthanasia warrants cautious, thorough deliberation, and under no circumstances should it be taken lightly or legalized without stringent safeguards. Protecting human life remains a fundamental societal goal, and the potential negative consequences of euthanasia continue to provoke intense debate worldwide.

References

• BBC. (2014). Anti-euthanasia arguments. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com
• ProCon. (2016). Euthanasia & Physician-Assisted Suicide (PAS) around the World. Retrieved from https://euthanasia.procon.org
• Somerville, M. (2009). Would euthanasia damage doctors? Retrieved from https://www.medicalethics.org
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• European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. (2017). Report on euthanasia laws in Europe. Council of Europe.
• Gomez, R. (2021). Ethical challenges in end-of-life decisions. Bioethics Today, 9(2), 78-85.
• Martinez, S. (2016). The debate over euthanasia: Moral and legal perspectives. Law and Ethics Quarterly, 22(3), 145-158.