Classification as Deviant Final
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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326
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Philosophy
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Jan 9, 2024
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8
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Classification as Deviant
Definition and Explanation of Physician-Assisted Suicide
Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) refers to the practice where a physician provides a
competent, terminally ill patient with a prescription for a lethal dose of medication, which the
patient can take at their discretion to end their life. Unlike euthanasia, where the physician
administers the means of death, in PAS, the patients themselves carry out the final act. This
distinction is crucial in the ethical and legal debates surrounding the practice.
Historical Context and Reactions
The concept of physician-assisted suicide is not new. Historical evidence suggests
varying attitudes towards the practice, ranging from acceptance in ancient societies to solid
opposition in others, often influenced by religious and cultural values. For instance, the idea was
accepted in ancient Greece and Rome. In contrast, in many other societies, life was considered
sacrosanct, and any form of suicide was deemed unacceptable.
In modern history, Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) has seen a shift in its legal and
societal status over the years. Oregon led the way with the groundbreaking Death with Dignity
Act, allowing terminally ill patients to self-administer prescribed medications to hasten death
(Assisted dying_ The motivations, benefits, and pitfalls of hastening death, 2019). This act set a
precedent, with several other states following suit, reflecting an evolving societal stance towards
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PAS. The debate over PAS intensified with advancements in medicine and the growing emphasis
on patient rights and autonomy. The 20th century saw a shift in public opinion, albeit with
significant resistance. Notably, legal reactions have varied, with some jurisdictions legalizing
PAS under strict conditions while others continue to prohibit it vehemently.
Current Status and Societal Views
Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is a highly debated topic with varying legal statuses
worldwide. Some regions, including Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, and certain U.S. states like
Oregon and Washington, have legalized PAS under strict regulations. Contrarily, it remains
illegal in many areas and faces significant legal and ethical challenges. Societal perspectives on
PAS are diverse and influenced by race and religion. For instance, the acceptance of PAS is
notably lower among African-American Protestants and Latino Catholics compared to White
Americans, especially in cases of terminal illness and extreme suffering, highlighting the impact
of cultural and religious beliefs on attitudes towards PAS. African-American Protestants and
Latino Catholics often view physician-assisted suicide (PAS) less favorably compared to most
White Americans. Cultural, religious, and ethical beliefs influence this perspective. African-
American Protestants may have reservations about PAS due to religious teachings on the sanctity
of life, a history of medical mistrust, and community-focused views on end-of-life care.
Similarly, Latino Catholics' opposition to PAS can be rooted in Catholic teachings, which
typically oppose suicide and emphasize the value of suffering and natural death. These
differences highlight the complex interplay of race, religion, and cultural values in shaping
attitudes toward PAS.
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The primary arguments supporting the classification of PAS as deviant stem from ethical,
religious, and societal perspectives. Ethically, it challenges the traditional role of physicians as
healers. Many argue that PAS contradicts the Hippocratic Oath, which emphasizes the duty of
physicians to preserve life. Religiously, it is often opposed because it violates the sanctity of life,
a principle held sacred in many faiths. Societally, some concerns are that legalizing PAS could
lead to a slippery slope where the value of human life is undermined, potentially leading to
negative implications for vulnerable populations like the elderly, disabled, and economically
disadvantaged. Proponents of PAS argue that it upholds patient autonomy, offering a dignified
and humane way to alleviate suffering for terminally ill patients (Pros and Cons of Physician Aid
in Dying, 2019). On the other hand, opponents raise concerns about potential suicide contagion
and the slippery slope of expanding criteria for eligibility alongside inadequate screening for
depression in terminally ill patients (Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019).
Arguments in Favor of the Behavior Remaining Deviant
Those advocating for PAS to remain classified as deviant often cite the potential for
abuse and the difficulty in regulating the practice. They argue that it could lead to coercion or
subtle pressure on vulnerable patients. There is also a concern about the message it sends
regarding how society values life, particularly in the context of those living with chronic
illnesses or disabilities. Additionally, opponents suggest that the availability of high-quality
palliative care negates the need for PAS, advocating for improvements in end-of-life care rather
than legalizing assisted suicide. The reclassification of PAS from a deviant to a non-deviant
social act reflects changing societal norms and advancements in medical ethics. This
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