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Death with dignity.

Peter Allmark1

  • 1Samuel Fox House, Norethern General Hospital, Sheffield S5 7AU, UK. P.J.Allmark@sheffield.ac.uk

Journal of Medical Ethics
|August 6, 2002
PubMed
Summary

This article defines death with dignity as living well, according to reason. Healthcare professionals should prevent indignities like pain and exclusion, rather than conferring dignity.

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Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Medicine
  • Bioethics

Background:

  • Existing conceptions of death with dignity are often criticized for subjectivity.
  • Defining dignity in the context of end-of-life care remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a conception of death with dignity.
  • To assess this conception against common criticisms.

Main Methods:

  • Conceptual analysis of "death" and "dignity."
  • Philosophical examination based on Aristotelian ethics.

Main Results:

  • Dignity is an intrinsic personal quality, not conferred by healthcare professionals.
  • "Death" refers to the dying process.
  • Indignities include pain and exclusion from decision-making.

Conclusions:

  • A modest conception of death with dignity, based on living well, avoids subjectivity.
  • Healthcare professionals can prevent indignities but cannot grant dignity.
  • This framework protects the dignity of vulnerable patients.
Keywords:
Analytical ApproachDeath and Euthanasia

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