Euthanasia in Canada : a Shambhala Buddhist perspective

Abstract

Euthanasia is an important political topic in contemporary Canada. Bill 52 in Quebec and the legal cases of Sue Rodriguez and Gloria Taylor demonstrate a slow societal shift towards politically accepting the practice of euthanasia. Members of the Shambhala Buddhist tradition offer additional insight of perspectives, both for and against the practice of euthanasia. Two main positions in the community arise when discussing euthanasia: an institutional position against the practice, and a non-institutional position in favour of it. These distinct positions are reconciled by members of the community, who approach euthanasia on a case-by-case basis, and reinterpreting teachings of karma, interdependence, and compassion. The Shambhala Buddhist position of reconciling various perspectives on euthanasia can contribute to overall discussions that include multiple religious voices in construction of laws and policies in Canada.