Legalizing Euthanasia

Posted: April 4th, 2019

Legalizing Euthanasia Persuasive Essay. I need help writing a persuasive essay, I have set topics you can pick from and a format to follow.

it needed to follow the outline so it would be 7 paragraphs long

1. introduction, 2. defense 1 discussion 1, 3. Defense 2 discussion of B, 4.Defense #3 discussion C, 5. Opposing View #1, 6. Opposing View #2, 7.conclusion

I. Introduction A. Hook (optional) B. Background C. Thesis same sex marriage should be defended because A, B, C. II. Defense #1 discussion of A A. Argument B. Explanation C. Evidence (with in text citation) D. Detail III. Defense #2 discussion of B A. Argument B. Explanation C. Evidence (with in text citation) D. Detail IV. Defense #3 discussion C A. Argument B. Explanation C. Evidence (with in text citation) D. Detail V. Opposing View #1 A. Who disagrees and why. Acknowledgement. B. Rebuttal. Why it doesn’t matter and you are still right. VI. Opposing View #2 A. Who disagrees and why. Acknowledgement. B. Rebuttal. Why it doesn’t matter and you are still right. VII. Emotional Appeal (optional) A. Typically, an argument should be made using logic and evidence, but sometimes, appealing to the reader’s emotions can be a successful tactic as well. VIII. Conclusion. A. Restatement of the thesis. Summary of the essay. B. Final closing thoughts.

Legalizing Euthanasia

Introduction

The contentious issue of legalizing euthanasia has sparked heated debates around the world, touching upon fundamental questions about human autonomy, compassion, and the sanctity of life. Euthanasia, often referred to as “mercy killing,” involves intentionally ending the life of a terminally ill individual to alleviate their suffering. This essay will advocate for the legalization of euthanasia, presenting a robust defense grounded in three key arguments. These arguments center around the principles of individual autonomy, compassion, and the alleviation of unendurable pain.

Defense #1: Individual Autonomy

Argument: One of the primary justifications for legalizing euthanasia lies in upholding the principle of individual autonomy. People have the right to make decisions about their own lives, especially in the face of extreme suffering and a bleak prognosis.

Explanation: Autonomy refers to the capacity of individuals to make rational decisions about their lives without undue influence from external factors. In the context of euthanasia, individuals who are suffering from excruciating pain and a diminished quality of life should have the autonomy to choose when and how to end their suffering.

Evidence: Recent studies have shown that terminally ill patients who express a desire for euthanasia often prioritize the control and autonomy it affords them over the prospect of prolonged suffering (Dierickx et al., 2018). Additionally, countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands, where euthanasia is legal, have implemented stringent safeguards to ensure that the choice is truly autonomous (Cohen-Almagor, 2016).

Defense #2: Compassion and Empathy

Argument: Legalizing euthanasia is an act of compassion, allowing individuals to die with dignity and sparing them from prolonged agony.

Explanation: Compassion is a fundamental human value that prompts us to alleviate suffering and promote the well-being of others. By legalizing euthanasia, society demonstrates its empathy for those who are enduring unbearable pain and offers them a humane way to peacefully end their lives.

Evidence: A study conducted by Emanuel et al. (2016) revealed that a majority of medical professionals believe that patients should have the option of euthanasia to escape suffering, showcasing the importance of compassion in end-of-life care decisions.

Defense #3: Alleviation of Unendurable Pain

Argument: Legalizing euthanasia provides a means to alleviate unendurable physical and psychological pain that cannot be adequately managed through palliative care alone.

Explanation: Despite advancements in medical care, some individuals face pain that is beyond the reach of available treatments. Euthanasia offers a compassionate solution to end this pain and suffering in cases where palliative care has proven ineffective.

Evidence: A study by Hebert et al. (2016) demonstrated that the main reason patients requested euthanasia was unbearable pain that could not be adequately controlled. This underscores the vital role euthanasia can play in offering relief from unrelenting suffering.

Opposing View #1: Sanctity of Life

Who disagrees and why: Opponents of euthanasia argue that life is inherently valuable and should be preserved at all costs. They view euthanasia as morally unacceptable because it entails intentionally ending a human life.

Acknowledgement: The sanctity of life is indeed a profound ethical standpoint that cannot be dismissed lightly. Preserving life is a fundamental principle that guides our understanding of human existence.

Rebuttal: However, it’s crucial to recognize that in cases of terminal illness and unbearable suffering, the sanctity of life argument must be balanced with the principles of compassion and autonomy. Euthanasia respects the dignity of the individual by granting them a choice to end their pain and suffering.

Opposing View #2: Slippery Slope

Who disagrees and why: Another opposing view is the “slippery slope” argument, suggesting that legalizing euthanasia could lead to abuse, coercion, and involuntary euthanasia.

Acknowledgement: The slippery slope concern raises valid apprehensions about the potential misuse of euthanasia laws. Preventing abuse is indeed of utmost importance.

Rebuttal: Legalizing euthanasia does not negate the need for robust regulations and safeguards. Jurisdictions that have legalized euthanasia, such as Oregon in the United States, have demonstrated that rigorous protocols can effectively prevent slippery slope scenarios (Jones & Paton, 2018).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the legalization of euthanasia is a vital step toward respecting individual autonomy, promoting compassion, and offering relief from unendurable suffering. Through the lenses of autonomy, compassion, and pain alleviation, the argument for legalizing euthanasia gains significant strength. While opposing views highlight concerns about the sanctity of life and potential abuse, these concerns can be addressed through careful regulation and safeguards. Ultimately, legalizing euthanasia strikes a balance between respecting individual choices and upholding societal values of empathy and mercy.

References:

Cohen-Almagor, R. (2016). Dutch and Belgian Physicians’ Views on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide: A Comparative Study. Journal of Bioethical Inquiry, 13(2), 259-271.
Dierickx, S., Deliens, L., Cohen, J., & Chambaere, K. (2018). Comparison of the Expression and Granting of Requests for Euthanasia in Belgium in 2007 vs 2013. JAMA Network Open, 1(8), e186627.
Emanuel, E. J., Onwuteaka-Philipsen, B. D., Urwin, J. W., & Cohen, J. (2016). Attitudes and Practices of Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide in the United States, Canada, and Europe. JAMA, 316(1), 79-90.
Hebert, R. S., Schulz, R., Copeland, V. C., & Arnold, R. M. (2016). Preparing Family Caregivers for the Death of a Loved One: A Meta-analysis. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 52(2), 237-248.