Introduction
The problem of death with dignity refers both to the personal dignity of the dying person and to the dignity of society, which by all means must preserve the dignity of all. Firstly, death with dignity is a moral concern for the dying. Death with dignity is the right of a person to decide to die, which is done deliberately. This decision is considered from the side of manifestation of self-respect of the individual, as it has a connection with value orientations in life.
Feelings on Scenario
To date, opinions about such a phenomenon as euthanasia remain ambiguous. Some people believe that human life is so valuable that it must be preserved under any conditions and by any means. On the one hand, the decision is purely individual, and morally, the doctor can take responsibility for the practice of euthanasia. On the other hand, the Hippocratic oath states not only to do not harm but also to have compassion and empathy for the patient (Wiesing, 2020). Some cite other outlets, such as palliative care, as an example. Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing problems associated with an incurable disease. Includes prevention and alleviation of suffering through early detection and accurate assessment and treatment of pain and other problems. However, this is not always effective because some patients will die anyway.
Ethical Theories
This question echoes the ethical theory of Kant, which says that a person is free to make ethical decisions, and the primary value of life is human freedom (Hill, 2019). In this case, it turns out that the refusal of the patient’s desire to leave with dignity violates his right to choose his fate and decide for himself how ethically it will be to die prematurely. According to Kant’s ethical theory, a person is obliged to obey only the norms he sets for himself (Sinha, 2022, p. 15). Therefore, every person who finds himself in a difficult physical situation should have the right to die with dignity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be said that the right of a person to die with dignity should not be limited to seriously ill patients who have to endure terrible pain every day. Euthanasia is a way that works in many countries so that people have a chance to die with dignity. In cases where death is inevitable, it is much more humane to allow a person to die in his right mind and without suffering.
References
Hill, T. E. (2019). Dignity and practical reason in Kant’s moral theory. In Dignity and Practical Reason in Kant’s Moral Theory. Cornell University Press.
Sinha, N. (2022). To Die or Not to Die: A Kantian Perspective on Euthanasia. Journal of Indian Council of Philosophical Research, 39(1), 13-24.
Wiesing, U. (2020). The Hippocratic Oath and the Declaration of Geneva: legitimisation attempts of professional conduct. Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy, 23(1), 81-86.