A Crime of Compassion

Argumentative Essay # 99446

English > Argument
Ethics
Hot Topics > Euthanasia

This paper argues that euthanasia is wrong for moral and intellectual reasons.

1,034 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper asserts that euthanasia undermines the sanctity of human life and can lead to situations in which people are put to death against their wishes. The paper looks at the reasons why some want to see the widespread use of euthanasia. The paper then examines the position of those opposed to euthanasia and agrees that it must be viewed as a crime of compassion that needs to be punished.

From the Paper:

"There are few controversies in our society more polarizing than the topic of Euthanasia. For one thing, a host of moral assumptions and values are brought "into the mix" whenever the subject is brought up. Perhaps more significantly, Euthanasia frightens many people because it involves a matter of life and death and whether or not a human being should be given that power over another human being regardless of how well-meaning the latter might be. In any case, Stedman's Medical Dictionary defines "Euthanasia" as being "The act or practice of ending the life of an individual suffering from a terminal illness or an incurable condition, as by lethal injection or by the suspension of extraordinary medical treatment" ("Euthanasia," defin.1)."

Sample of Sources Used:

"Euthanasia." The Free Dictionary by Farlex. 2006. Farlex, Inc. 20 Sept. 2006 <http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/euthanasia>
Harper, Douglas. "Online Etymology Dictionary: Euthanasia." Online Etymology Dictionary. 2001. Douglas Harper. 21 Sept. 2006 <http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?l=e&p=11>