[Feeding and hydration--an unphysiological answer to the problem of dying]

A short description of the physiological changes caused by dehydration and lack of calories is followed by a framework of guidelines that could provide a basis for care dying patients beyond mere mitigation of suffering. It is derived from the observation of the laws that we perceive to govern the processes of birth and death, living and dying. Polarity and the inherent rules of human developmental changes are defined as perpetually valid aspects of wisdom and are set off against the perpetually changing frontiers of knowledge with their limited validity. In conclusion, we submit an outline of our practical efforts in dealing with dying patients at the Affoltern Bezirksspital.