Every Individual Is Capable of Injuring or Killing Himself

question 98

Multiple Choice

Every individual is capable of injuring or killing himself. This potentiality is a fundamental expression of human freedom. Self-destructive behavior may be regarded as sinful and penalized by means of informal sanctions. But it should not be regarded as a crime or (mental) disease, justifying or warranting the use of the police powers of the state for its control. Therefore, it is absurd to deprive an adult of a drug (or of anything else) because he might use it to kill himself. Thomas Szasz, "The Ethics of Addiction".

• A) Argument; conclusion: Every individual is capable of injuring or killing himself.
• B) Argument; conclusion: Self destructive behavior ... informal sanctions.
• C) Nonargument.
• D) Argument; conclusion: This potentiality ... expression of human freedom.
• E) Argument; conclusion: It is absurd to deprive an adult of a drug ... kill himself.

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Definitions:

Reliability

The consistency and dependability of a measurement, test, or instrument over time or across different conditions or observers.

External Validity

The degree to which an experimental design actually reflects the real-world issues it is supposed to address.

Experimental Design

A research method for testing hypotheses by systematically manipulating variables to observe the effect on some behavior or mental process.

Real-world Issues

Practical problems or challenges that occur in everyday life, outside of controlled experimental settings.