Publication: The Right to Die with Dignity. A Discussion of Cohen-Almagor's Book
Date
2004
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
EUT Edizioni Università di Trieste
Abstract
Cohen-Almagor's book represents a remarkable contribution to the discussion of the right to die with dignity. It offers the discussion of a wide range of topics. They include: the terminology respectful of human dignity (where, for example, 'post-coma unawareness' is suggested instead of 'permanent vegetative state'); the question of autonomy; the sanctity-of life – quality of life debate; criticism of some extreme quality-of-life position; criticism of Ronald Dworkin's distinction between critical and experiential interests and the consequences this author draws from it; active and passive euthanasia; the Dutch experience and the Oregon Death with Dignity Act; and many others. The book is discussed from a basically sympathetic view, where some details are focused on as meriting some further examination. Some remarks are offered to indicate the complexity of the definition of autonomy; a defense of Dworkin's argument is offered; an insistence on the necessity to rely on moral conferring features is remarked.
Description
Keywords
Cohen-Almagor, Raphael, Right to Die
Citation
Elvio Baccarini, "The Right to Die with Dignity. A Discussion of Cohen-Almagor's Book", in: Etica & Politica / Ethics & Politics, VI (2004) 2, pp. 1-11.