Benchmark-Ethical Dilemmas: The Issue Of Euthanasia

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Benchmark – Ethical Dilemmas The issue of euthanasia is a dispute that has been around since the late 1800’s (Merciful). The act of euthanasia or mercy killing is a debated ethical dilemma that some believes to be morally wrong. While circumstances can differentiate a person’s justifications, there is always another perspective to consider where euthanasia is involved. In my paper I will dive into Case Study 2, which deals with the discussion of euthanasia according to the Christian worldview and how it compares to the vies of other beliefs or worldviews.
Ethical Dilemma Case Study 2 involves the tragic event that affected the life of a young lady only seventeen years of age. The victim, Joni, was severely injured in a swimming accident
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God will not force himself into the life of a person if He is not desired by that person. Though He desires us to want and need Him, it is by our choice to choose Him (Book Ch9). Therefore, if she chooses euthanasia, suffering will continue to follow (lecture 6). The bible says “Do nothing form self-ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Philippians 2:1-11). Ending her life would be a selfish act bringing heartache and guilt upon her parents. It would also bring forth eternal rejection from God (Matthew 10:33).
The apostle Paul talks about the love of God in Romans. He explains that God does not promise only good and pleasurable things to occur in our lives (Romans 8:28). The difficult experiences we face in life can be used in God’s overall plan for good because nothing can separate us from His love (Lecture 7.) If she does not turn to God to help with guiding her through this rough period, she will definitely turn to something that will, in the end, bringing only more pain.
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Some share the views of the Christian faith, while others look at euthanasia as a solution to the struggles of humanity. In the1900s, William Duncan McKim saw euthanasia as a way to rid society of those that were drunk, criminals, and those that exhibited any disabilities (Merciful, pg 22). In some Eastern religions, such as Hinduism, euthanasia is approved when done out of compassion for the family or others. This extreme act would alleviate the burden that would fall on those carrying for the patient. However, there is also the belief that the act of euthanasia would conflict with the moral principle of ahimsa, which condemns any action that threatens the life of a person (Campbell, Courtney). Each worldview looks at the value of life in a different aspect. In Belgium, the quality of the patient’s life is taken into consideration. Aspects such as a purposeful life, loss of dignity, and whether the patient would live in pain are deliberated in the application process ("Preface to

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