My death is my concern : an argument for euthanasia

Abstract

This paper is an argument for euthanasia that is developed around the Sue Rodriguez case which was recently before the Supreme Court of Canada. In the first chapter, an analysis of both the majority and the dissenting opinions provides a insight into the current, official status of euthanasia in Canada. Justice McLachlin holds the belief that the interests of the individual are paramount, while Justice Sopinka, who writes for the majority of the court, places the interests of the state prior to those of the individual. Justice Sopinka's argument in support of his view is based on the principle of the sanctity of life, the doctrine of double effect, and the distinction between killing and letting die.

The argument that I present against the doctrine of double effect follows the line it does not serve any useful function in the context of medical ethics.

The purpose of this proposal is to provide a way out of the traditional pattern of point and counter-point that the debate has followed for so long without producing a conclusive resolution. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)