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Intention, manner, and culpability in death
1Lehigh University, USA.
Princeton Journal of Bioethics
|May 21, 2003
Summary
This study critiques the American Medical Association's euthanasia policy, focusing on the distinction between life-ending and life-preserving medical treatments, rather than acts of commission versus omission.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Bioethics
- Health Policy
Background:
- The American Medical Association (AMA) has a stated policy on euthanasia.
- Criticism of the AMA policy often centers on the distinction between acts of commission and omission.
- This paper offers a novel perspective on the ethical debate surrounding euthanasia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically analyze the AMA's policy on euthanasia.
- To shift the ethical focus from commission/omission to the intent of medical interventions.
- To explore the implications of distinguishing between life-ending and life-preserving treatments.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis of medical ethics.
- Critical review of existing literature on euthanasia and medical policy.
- Ethical argumentation regarding treatment intentions.
Main Results:
- The distinction between commission and omission may be less relevant than the intent behind medical actions.
- Medical treatments can be categorized by their aim: to end life or to preserve an acceptable quality of life.
- This reframing challenges current ethical frameworks for evaluating euthanasia.
Conclusions:
- The AMA's policy on euthanasia warrants re-evaluation based on the intent of medical interventions.
- A clearer ethical distinction between life-ending and life-preserving care is crucial.
- This ethical framework can inform future policy development in end-of-life care.
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