What is doerflingers view on euthanasia?

Answer 1

Doerflinger gives seven reasons why euthanasia should be allowed, but quickly rebukes each one. He essentially says "No" to it. Here is a general overview of the arguments and his rebuttals:

1. Elderly/dying patients are psychologically vulnerable

1. People may want to die so they can no longer be burdens; it may be seen as selfish to want to keep living if dying as a choice is legal

2. Cost of healthcare is high

1. It's expensive so dying may be more socially accepted/preferred if legally allowed

3. Current legal system accommodates for non-voluntary passive euthanasia

1. Relatives can choose euthanasia for the mentally ill, but allowing assisted suicide may even allowed relatives to decide in cases of involuntary/non-voluntary active euthanasia

4. Some argue for broader terms of "terminal illness"

1. Terminal to include those in comas because they can't swallow, eat, or drink without active assistance

5. There is prejudice against those with disabilities

1. Those who lose ability to do things (become handicapped) may feel life is not worth it and want to die

6. The character of medicine - physicians are "enemies of death"

1. They are meant to save lives, not take them

7. There is a human will to power

1. People like to have power over the lives of others; killing once creates a feeling that one can kill again