Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide are often seen as a compassionate response to the suffering of another human being.
For some, bodily autonomy is viewed as an important good which must be protected at all costs. This means deciding when and how they die. Others may never want to choose to end their own life, but feel that others should have the choice. Those who approve of euthanasia and assisted suicide, often argue that legislation will ensure that no-one will ever be put in a situation where they are coerced or killed without their consent.
In any discussion about euthanasia and assisted suicide, there are important moral and ethical considerations to be examined.
In addition, turning to jurisdictions where euthanasia and/or assisted suicide are legal, can help uncover the dangers of passing such legislation.
Dive deeper into the implications of legalising euthanasia and assisted suicide, and consider the moral and ethical ramifications. The following resources are provided to assist you in defending the sanctity of life at its vulnerable stages using reasoned, factual information, supported by the timeless wisdom of the Catholic Church.
Euthanasia and assisted suicide can appear a reasonable and even compassionate solution to the suffering of individuals and families struggling with illness or the dying process. Yet these are not real solutions – they do not solve human problems, but only take the lives of those most in need of unconditional love.
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Pastoral Care Plan