1. Religious Views on Euthanasia
LO: Understand Christian and Muslim attitudes and the reasons behind this.

2. Religious attitudes to life after death
Write down 2 facts for Christianity and Islam that show why they believe in life after death. (Use your text books to help – if needed)
Religious attitudes to life after death

3. What do Christians believe about euthanasia?
There are mixed views:
Catholics - Euthanasia is wrong in ALL cases. Only God can take life.
Church of England – Euthanasia is wrong in MOST cases, however you need to look at the case individually. It might be the lesser of 2 evils.

4. Evidence…
Euthanasia is ending someone’s life. Some Christians view this as murder therefore will never accept euthanasia due to the teachings from the 10 commandments of “you shall not murder”. This means that Catholic Christians, who believe strongly in the Sanctity of Life, will see any type of euthanasia as a sin.
However, other Christians will view euthanasia as an act of love because they do not wish to see their family member suffer in pain. They would apply the teaching of Jesus to “love thy neighbour as thyself.” This means that some Church of England Christians, who follow the loving teachings of Jesus, will allow passive euthanasia as it is the most loving thing to do in the circumstances.

5. What do Muslims believe about euthanasia?
There are mixed views:
Most Muslims believe it always wrong as only Allah can take life.
It is a compassionate religion and allows some flexibility.

6. Evidence…
Muslims believe Allah is the only one who can take life therefore euthanasia goes against His plan and that all life is sacred. The Qur’an states: “It is He (Allah) who created you from a single person.” This means that Muslims believe in the Sanctity of Life and will view any form of euthanasia as a sin.
However, other Muslims will view euthanasia as an act of compassion because they do not wish to see their family member suffer in pain. They would apply the teaching of the Qur’an: “Do not take life except for a just cause.” This means that some Muslims, who believe euthanasia is justifiable, will allow passive euthanasia.

7. ‘Euthanasia is always wrong’ (6 marks)
Do you agree? Give reasons for your opinion, showing you have thought about different points of view. Refer to religious responses in your answer