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🥸ethics review

Voluntary euthanasia

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Voluntary euthanasia is the practice of intentionally ending a person's life to relieve them from suffering, with their explicit consent. This concept is significant in discussions about end-of-life ethics, as it raises questions about autonomy, the value of life, and the role of medical professionals in assisting patients who wish to die peacefully.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Voluntary euthanasia can be distinguished from non-voluntary euthanasia, where a person's consent is not obtained due to their inability to provide it.
  2. Legal regulations surrounding voluntary euthanasia vary widely by country and even by state or province within countries, with some places allowing it under strict guidelines.
  3. The ethical debate around voluntary euthanasia often centers on issues of patient autonomy, the sanctity of life, and the potential for abuse or coercion.
  4. Proponents argue that voluntary euthanasia respects individual choice and can provide a humane option for those suffering from terminal illnesses or unbearable pain.
  5. Opponents raise concerns about the moral implications of ending a life and fear that it may lead to a slippery slope where vulnerable populations are at risk.

Review Questions

  • How does voluntary euthanasia differ from assisted suicide, and what implications does this distinction have for ethical discussions?
    • Voluntary euthanasia differs from assisted suicide in that it involves a direct action taken by a medical professional to end a patient's life, whereas assisted suicide allows the individual to perform the act themselves using provided means. This distinction is important in ethical discussions as it highlights different levels of involvement by healthcare providers and raises questions about responsibility, intention, and the role of medical ethics in each scenario. Understanding this difference can influence public policy and personal beliefs about both practices.
  • Discuss the ethical concerns associated with voluntary euthanasia and how they relate to the principles of patient autonomy and medical professionalism.
    • The ethical concerns surrounding voluntary euthanasia often focus on the balance between respecting patient autonomy and upholding medical professionalism. Advocates argue that individuals should have the right to choose how and when they die, especially in cases of unbearable suffering. However, opponents worry that permitting voluntary euthanasia may undermine the trust between patients and healthcare providers and could pressure vulnerable individuals into making decisions based on societal or familial expectations. These concerns necessitate careful consideration of safeguards and regulations to protect both patient rights and medical integrity.
  • Evaluate the impact of legalizing voluntary euthanasia on societal views regarding death, autonomy, and healthcare responsibilities.
    • Legalizing voluntary euthanasia can significantly shift societal views on death and autonomy, framing it as a legitimate option for those experiencing intolerable suffering. It raises complex questions about healthcare responsibilities, particularly regarding how medical professionals approach end-of-life care. As more jurisdictions consider legalizing voluntary euthanasia, there may be increased discourse on patient rights versus societal values related to life preservation. This evolution in perspective could lead to broader acceptance of individual choice in healthcare decisions while also prompting necessary discussions about ethical standards, potential abuses, and the role of palliative care as an alternative.