Revision for Euthanasia Nab

How many marks is the question worth? Is it KU? Then give information with reasons where possible / required

Is it AE? Then you MUST use words like: Similarly In contrast In comparison However But because Like……also In (dis)agreement with Use information to start off your point, but it only counts as AE once it is argued / discussed AE must relate back to the question!

Voluntary euthanasia Requested by patient When of sound mind Choosing when they are ready to be helped to end their life, in a place of their choosing and with loved ones nearby Perhaps in a living will for future use when not able to express wishes

Involuntary/non voluntary euthanasia Considered to be in the patient’s best interests According to their wishes expressed in times gone by (living will or verbally) Taken by loved one or doctor responsible for the patient

Please take care in reading if the question is asking about voluntary or involuntary – don’t assume you know which it is!!! If you write about the wrong one you will get 0

Viewpoints If it asks for the ‘viewpoint of an organisation’ this means: Christianity – all views or Buddhism - all views or Humanism - all views NOT JUST ONE VIEW FROM THE WHOLE STANCE!!

Viewpoint of an organisation ‘independent of religion’ YOU MUST MENTION HUMANISM Relate your arguments to the basis of humanism / the principles they follow If you don’t mention the organisation, brilliant tho’ your answer might be you will get ‘0’

BMA They act as a ‘watch dog’ and advisory committee for doctors. They recognise that euthanasia is illegal Would remind doctors that it can lead to a prison sentence of 14 years June 2006 conference changed its stance from being neutral to the issue - to being opposed to legalisation of euthanasia again. 65% doctors voted against euthanasia However they recognise the rights of the patient to refuse treatment, and accept voluntary passive euthanasia Accept the double effect of painkillers but would insist doctors are clear about their intentions in providing strong pain relief. Support doctors legally if they can justify their actions within the law.

UK Law Not legal- to kill another person, even if they ask you to is classed as murder Prison sentence of up to 14 years (manslaughter) for aiding or assisting, or counselling someone to take their own life Active euthanasia by side effect is legal i.e double effect Voluntary passive- refusing treatment is legal

Law in Netherlands 1984 VE became acceptable Clear and defined official guidelines Clear and explicit request from a patient of sound mind who can’t reasonably look forward to recovery or improvement Not a condition to be terminally ill or physically suffering – used for mental suffering too Citizens of other countries are not allowed to go to Holland to seek euthanasia

Only carried out by a doctor No doubt as to patient’s request Need to consult another doctor Unbearable pain with no prospect of improvement ( also including mental illness) Death must be reported to authorities as a case of euthanasia

Questions to ‘watch out for’ – i.e. be careful how you read them!! Compare and contrast the viewpoints –Do not list facts, use them to make an argument “ xyz” to what extent do you agree? –With the statement not the issue in general Which viewpoint give the most satisfactory response to a statement. –You might say that your viewpoint disagrees with the statement BECAUSE –Use the viewpoint that backs you up