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:

Moro Province

A geographic and administrative region in the Philippines, historically significant for its resistance against Spanish, American, and Japanese colonial rule.

American Rule

A legal principle that each party involved in a lawsuit covers their own attorney's fees, unless specific legislation or a contract states otherwise.

Resistance

Opposition or defiance against an authority or any controlling force.

Spanish-American-Cuban-Filipino War

Also known as the Spanish-American War (1898), this conflict involved the United States supporting Cuban and Filipino rebels against Spanish colonial rule, resulting in the U.S. acquiring territories like Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.