Case Study:
Terri Schiavo, a severely brain-damaged Florida woman, became a national symbol for how not to die in America in 1990. Her husband Michael Schiavo argued that his wife would never have wanted to live like that and attempted to get the feeding tube removed. Her parents disagreed and fought to keep her alive. Schiavo's case languished inside courtrooms for years. Eventually the courts agreed with her husband and removed feeding tubes. Terri died on March 31, 2005. In 2013, the governor of Florida signed what is called Terri's law to reinsert her feeding tube.
Discussion Prompt:
Euthanasia, or the intentional ending of a person's life to relieve their suffering, is a complex and controversial topic. There are arguments for and against euthanasia, each with its own set of pros and cons. Here are some of the main points to consider:
Pros:
- Relief of suffering
- Autonomy and respect for individual choice
- Reduced healthcare costs
- Medical advances
Cons:
- Ethical and moral concerns
- Slippery slope
- Psychological effects on healthcare providers
- Potential for abuse
- Legal and regulatory challenges
Advance directives are legal documents that allow individuals to specify their wishes for medical treatment in the event that they become unable to communicate their preferences. Advance directives can be an important tool for individuals who want to maintain control over their medical care and ensure that their wishes are respected. However, it's important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks and to consult with a qualified attorney or healthcare professional to ensure that the advance directive is legally valid and comprehensive.
Questions: Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of advanced directives.