New Directions in the Ethics of Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia

This book provides novel perspectives on the ethical justifiability of assisted dying, discussing themes such as markets, disability, gender, artificial intelligence, medical futility, race, and transhumanism. It is ideal for advanced courses in bioethics and healthcare ethics and illustrates how social and technological developments will shape debates about assisted dying in the years to come.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This book offers fresh insights into the ethical justifiability of assisted dying, expanding the horizons of the revised edition of New Directions in the Ethics of Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia. It delves far beyond the conventional discussions on the value of human life, exploring the profound ethical implications of individual autonomy, the compatibility of assisted dying with the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals, and the complex issues surrounding intention and causation. This groundbreaking work promises to revolutionize the landscape of ethical debates surrounding assisted dying, presenting novel themes such as the role of markets, disability, gender, artificial intelligence, medical futility, race, and transhumanism. With its comprehensive coverage, this book is an invaluable resource for advanced courses in bioethics and healthcare ethics, providing a clear understanding of how social and technological advancements will shape the future of discussions on assisted dying.

Introduction:
The issue of assisted dying has been a subject of intense debate and discussion in recent years, with proponents arguing that it provides a compassionate option for individuals facing terminal illnesses or unbearable suffering. Opponents, on the other hand, argue that it undermines the sanctity of life and goes against fundamental ethical principles. In this book, we will explore the ethical justifiability of assisted dying from a variety of perspectives, including medical, philosophical, and legal.
Medical Perspective:
The medical perspective on assisted dying focuses on the potential benefits and risks associated with the practice. Medical professionals argue that assisted dying can provide relief from pain and suffering, improve the quality of life for individuals with terminal illnesses, and reduce the burden on families and healthcare systems. However, they also raise concerns about the potential for abuse, coercion, and error, as well as the ethical implications of hastening death.
Philosophical Perspective:
Philosophical perspectives on assisted dying explore the nature of human life, the value of autonomy, and the ethical implications of ending one's life. Some philosophers argue that human life has inherent value and that assisted dying goes against the principles of respect for autonomy and dignity. Others argue that assisted dying can be justified in certain circumstances, such as when an individual is suffering from a terminal illness and has a reasonable expectation of a short life span.
Legal Perspective:
The legal perspective on assisted dying considers the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern the practice. Different countries have different laws and regulations regarding assisted dying, with some allowing it under certain conditions, such as when an individual has a terminal illness and a reasonable expectation of a short life span. In other countries, assisted dying is illegal or restricted to certain circumstances.
Conclusion:
Assisted dying is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of medical, philosophical, and legal perspectives. While there are potential benefits to the practice, there are also ethical concerns that must be addressed. It is important to engage in open and honest dialogue about assisted dying, to ensure that individuals have access to the information and support they need to make informed decisions about their end-of-life care.

Weight: 705g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031253140
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2023