Since the beginning, when making an informed and logical choice, ethical issues have always played a significant role in determining the final decision. Passive euthanasia is a controversial issue with many ethical implications, as the situation needs to be closely examined to determine whether allowing a person to die naturally is the most humane option and in order to explore the long term implications for society in the future. Therefore, through closely examining the Terri Schiavo case, along with Lawrence Kohlberg’s Moral Development Theory, and secular theories such as Utilitarianism and the legal perspective, and the Catholic and Muslim perspective, it will be concluded that in some situations passive euthanasia can be seen as ethically humane.
Passive euthanasia is the act of ending a sick human beings life by withdrawing their basic needs which includes removing food and water, so that the human dies as a result of starvation or dehydration. It also includes denying the patient medications or operations that will assist in extending the person’s life. Passive euthanasia is the deed of allowing nature to take its course. (Jackson L,2005)
Passive euthanasia is the act of ending a sick human beings life by withdrawing their basic needs which includes removing food and water, so that the human dies as a result of starvation or dehydration. It also includes denying the patient medications or operations that will assist in extending the person’s life. Passive euthanasia is the deed of allowing nature to take its course. (Jackson L,2005)