Given the Following Position on Euthanasia (Doctor-Assisted Suicide), Identify Which

question 57

Short Answer

Given the following position on euthanasia (doctor-assisted suicide), identify which of the three major ethical theories discussed in the text-utilitarianism, duty theory, or virtue ethics-it follows. Note that each theory may encompass several possible viewpoints on an issue.
Active euthanasia should not be legalized; it is much too dangerous. The consequences could be devastating to our society. If we allow terminally ill people access to euthanasia, what guarantees do we have that such access won't be abused? It would be easy to imagine greedy relatives insisting that it is better for Grandma to die sooner than linger in pain, or to imagine Grandma choosing to die sooner so she won't cost the family a lot of money. Overall, access to euthanasia may cause terrible unhappiness.

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Definitions:

Greater Resources

Refers to having access to more abundant or higher quality resources, which can influence power dynamics and opportunities within societies.

Empirical Study

A study based on observation or experience, relying on experimental or measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning.

Social Realism

An art movement that focuses on depicting social and political conditions realistically, as in the lives of everyday people, often with a critique of the status quo.

Sociology

The study of social behavior, societies, patterns of social relationships, social interaction, and culture that surrounds everyday life.