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Autonomy, rationality and the wish to die
1Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. david.clarke@med.monash.edu.au
Journal of Medical Ethics
|January 15, 2000
Summary
This study challenges the notion of a "right to suicide" based on autonomy and rationality. It proposes "understandability" and "respect" as more fitting concepts for addressing end-of-life wishes.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Medicine
- Sociology of Health and Illness
- Bioethics
Background:
- Societal views on suicide are evolving, with a tension between traditional prohibition and emerging arguments for relaxed restrictions.
- Public concern persists regarding youth and elder suicide, yet principles of autonomy and rationality fuel debate on end-of-life choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the sufficiency of autonomy and rationality in establishing a
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis of concepts related to suicide.
- Examination of historical examples, such as Roman suicide, to illustrate cultural influences.
Main Results:
- Autonomy and rationality alone are insufficient to support a categorical
Conclusions:
- The concepts of
Keywords:
Death and Euthanasia