Citation

McLean GR. S. Afr. Psych. Rev. 2004; 7(1): 10-18.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, In House Publications)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper discusses the ethics of euthanasia. Situations are described in which the normal duty to sustain life is overridden by other duties towards the patient; but these situations are contrasted with euthanasia properly so called. Arguments for euthanasia are considered, and a refutation of those arguments is offered. The case against euthanasia is reinforced by an appeal to the possible harmful consequences of a policy under which it is allowed. Particular implications for psychiatry are advocated.

Language: en

Keywords

human; Suicide; Ethics; morality; psychiatry; assisted suicide; Euthanasia; suicidal behavior; review; euthanasia; health care policy; patient care; medical decision making; terminal care; legal aspect; active euthanasia; passive euthanasia; voluntary euthanasia; patient attitude; medical profession; hospice care; Duty of care; Duty to sustain life