The debate surrounding euthanasia is a central issue in bioethics. High profile cases have increased public awareness about rights in relation to end-of-life decision-making and raised concerns regarding the overuse of life-sustaining medical technology. This has led to calls for the right to die with dignity and for the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and/or voluntary active euthanasia (Battin et al 1998). Public perceptions of what euthanasia involves, however, tend to be confused and this is aggravated by the press, who, in seeking to dramatize `right to die' cases, have created further confusion. A critical examination of the doctrine that informs the distinction between passive and active euthanasia is undertaken to demonstrate why this confusion exists. In the author's opinion, a more honest approach to death and dying will lead to much-needed clarity surrounding euthanasia.
Two highly publicized cases demonstrate the confusion that exists in relation to euthanasia. These cases relate to Miss B and Diane Pretty (Farsides, 1992). Miss B was paralyzed from the neck down and requested that ventilator support be withdrawn as she did not want to continue living under these circumstances. It is an established legal principle that a competent adult has an absolute right to refuse treatment. However, the healthcare team raised questions about Miss B's competency and was reluctant to withdraw treatment, knowing that it would result in Miss B's death. The case went to court and Miss B's right to have treatment withdrawn was upheld. The case of Diane Pretty, who had motor neuron disease, was different, in that she requested a declaration from the court that if her husband were to assist her to die, when she felt she could no longer continue to live, he would not be prosecuted for his part in her death.
This essay has the followings:
Total words: 1049
Total reference: 3
Total price: £ 19.95
Click here to Order this essay!
Get Professionally written Essays that are:
• Written According to your Exact Requirements
• 100% Original and Non-Plagiarized
• Written by Expert
UK Writers
• Delivered to you before your deadline
Amazingly Low Prices - £9.95/page
