- Describe the transitions in death and dying in the modern era and the shifting human assessment of the gains and losses found in the transitions.
- In the search for a new construct to enable human beings to deal with dying and death, the Patient Self-Determination Act became law. What are its advantages and disadvantages?
- Physician Assisted Suicide has been suggested as an appropriate remedy to the restraining of death. Develop and evaluate the set of arguments that have been brought forth in its defense. Be certain to include the following:
- a. Legal arguments
- b. Philosophical arguments
- c. Medical arguments
- d. Practical arguments
- e. Economic arguments
- Against the right to assistance in suicide by medical personnel as a liberty right, there are asserted rights and obligations of the state. What are the Parens patriae obligations of the state?
- Read the Introduction and Directives 55-66 in Part Five, "Issues in Care for the Dying," of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services. What guidelines are set down there to assist health care practitioners in the care of the dying?
- How should a Christian prepare for death? What obligations do Christians owe the dying?
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Medical Ethics - Study Materials
