ONLINE ARTICLE REVIEW

Online article review

Online Article Review

One of the most difficult truths to cope with for most human beings is death. However, people are taking the decision to end their lives, which will in effect also end their pain and suffering. This practiced is called euthanasia, or “assisted suicide”, which is the term most commonly used among those who are against the practice entirely. Whichever way you choose to label it, it is an issue that society should become more familiar with. Switzerland for example, had legalized the practice and is in great support of those who wish to end their lives in order to escape the detriment of their ailments (Longmore, 1987). The practice is only legal and offered to those who are suffering from terminal illnesses or vegetative states.

The controversy that surrounds euthanasia is not very surprising. In fact it's almost understandable that religious activists and humanitarian groups would find themselves on opposing sides. Yet, I am more concerned with those involved in these issues, and the families. I could not imagine having to make a decision to end my own life, but who knows how easy that choice could be made if I too were suffering from an illness that left me indisposed and in constant agony. For that reason, I believe that we have to take a more diplomatic approach to evaluating this practice, one that will allow for both sides to be equally represented.

Richard Doerflinger's article Assisted Suicide: Pro-Choice or Anti-Life, published by The Hastings Center, a journal that focuses on medical-moral issues, ethics in science, etc, Doerflinger makes it quite clear he does not agree with the practice of assisted suicide or euthanasia, as it is referred to in the medical world (Doerflinger, 1989). Although the article is published in a journal that would typically appeal to a readership that would be against euthanasia, they should allow for a more open-ended look into certain issues. This would create a greater understanding for the topic at hand, and also show the journal's sense of diplomacy and respect for the facts, regardless of their own standpoint.

Interestingly enough, the author Richard Doerflinger is deputy Director of the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, where he has worked for 21 years. Having degrees in both Divinity and Theology, it's no surprise his stance would be pro-life. Having said that, it's also quite important ...