Citation

Texas medical journal (Austin, Tex.) 1897; 12(9): 507-511.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1897)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

36955837

PMCID

PMC9621811

Abstract

The subject of suicide is, more than ever, occupying attention, not only of scholars and writers, but of all classes. The question as to an individual's right to terminate his life,--for reasons satisfactory to himself,--is being discussed in medical, religious and secular journals, and even from the pulpit; and it cannot be denied, whether as a result of this discussion, and the directing of attention to the subjector not,--the idea that one has that right, is growing in popular favor. The number of suicides increases each year.

It may be that with the growing neglect of i religious duties, and the consequent removal from the influence of the church, the fear of future punishment is greatly diminished; and this restraint, which has always been the most potent factor in limiting the number of suicides, no longer deters many so disposed. It is this fear, rather than any moral consideration of right or wrong, or of responsibilty, that has operated to hinder the despondent and the unhappy.

Language: en