The Euthanasia Debate: International Experience and Canadian Policy Proposals

This thesis examines the problematic prospect of the introduction of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide into Canadian society. The thesis argues that euthanasia is too simplistic an approach to address the complexities of end of life issues. The policy proposal under active discussion is profoundly mistaken. The language of euthanasia is examined in relation to the choice of words used, drawing attention to how words, when used loosely, can distort reality in this matter. Historical experience from other jurisdictions is presented to provide a context for this discussion. A "slippery slope" argument emerges via the claim that, in practice and in principle, euthanasia can neither be contained nor managed upon its introduction into a society. A theoretical model based on virtue theory is then used to interpret these findings and to frame a constructive response. The policy alternative of enhanced resources for palliative care is presented. It is concluded that the risks associated with euthanasia are momentous and grave while the benefits are few.

Name thesis:degree_name

MA

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Theology

Grantor dc:publisher

The University of Western Ontario

Year dc:date.issued

2016

Author dc:creator

• Fratschko, Lorna M

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Badcock, Gary D.

• euthanasia
• physician-assisted suicide
• virtue theory
• palliative care

Language dc:language.iso

en_ca

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14721/33643

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:uwo.scholaris.ca:20.500.14721/33643