Essay On The Impact Of Religion On Euthanasia

The impact of Religion on health care and end of life decisions has always been an important part of society. The strong influences have helped to shape the views on many areas such as legislation and health care issues. This scenario of George who was recently diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) represents some challenges that patients occasionally encounter. This disease causes atrophy of musculo-skeletal muscles and the breakdown of neurons which results in death from being unable to breathe. This reality of deterioration is a real concern as well as how it will affect their loved ones. The thought of death may be scary for some but, for others it is a much welcomed option in the face of suffering. While some will make the choice of ending prolonged suffering through euthanasia others may be apprehensive because of their religious beliefs in the after-life. Buddhism is an ancient religion, that is dated back to 536 B.C. It is believed that Prince Gautama Siddhartha had set out on a journey to explore India for six years in hope of finding an answer for suffering. Eventually he stopped under a tree where he began to meditate for six days and found the solution which he sought and became the enlightened one (Buddha). At the center of Buddhism is meditation which contributes to one …show more content…
The perspective of Buddhism on sickness is similar to their views on disabilities. “It allows the person to deal with their illness through meditation, where they will learn about their true self” (Waldman, Cannella & Perlman, 2010). While Christianity embraces sickness and death as the opportunity to enter into the kingdom of heaven. This is consistent with scriptures such as “for God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16,