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Article by Cameron Spink
'My underlying motive was the desire to help individuals who could not help themselves...such considerations should not be regarded as inhuman. Nor did I feel it in any way to be unethical or immoral...I am convinced that if Hippocrates were alive today he would change the wording of his oath...in which a doctor is forbidden to administer poison to an invalid even on demand...I have a perfectly clear conscience about the part I played in the affair. I am perfectly conscious that when I said yes to euthanasia I did so with the greatest conviction, just as it is my conviction today that it is right.'
This article seeks to present seven reasons why Christians should not support legalising euthanasia. The points presented are condensed arguments from two articles “If people were dogs & other false arguments for euthanasia” and “Thou Shalt Not Kill - The Christian Case Against Compassionate Killing”. This article is meant as an introduction into one side of the debate regarding euthanasia and both linked articles are much more comprehensive resources.
1. The dangers of situationism
For many in the Christian Church the sixth commandment to not murder is limited by and sometimes superseded by Jesus commandment to “love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31). Indeed, Jesus decrees that this commandment is second only to loving God. However, Jesus came to fulfil the law. There is no contradiction between the ten commandments and Jesus’ decree.
2. Autonomy hurts society
For a significant portion of humanists and secularists the right to choose for oneself is seen as the greatest right. So indeed if a person wishes to die a less painful death they are completely within their authority to choose to do so. This logic, though, does not take into account the impact that some decisions have on society. Euthanasia crosses the line of autonomy and encroaches on the bedrock of sanctity of life, much like abortion. This defies the Hippocratic Oath as well as the Declaration of Geneva.
3. Is it really voluntary?
While in many situations euthanasia can be seen as a “mercy killing” this clearly can not be the case where involuntary euthanasia’s start occurring. This has transpired in countries which have legalised euthanasia in two significant ways. First, there is the doctor’s performing involuntary euthanasia because they determine that resources can be used upon other patients. Secondly, pressure to die quickly can be placed upon the individual by their families for various reasons. Both of these aspects will occur in Victoria to varying degrees if we endorse euthasia.
4. The Nazi Example
Many people will be surprised to comprehend that the quote at the start of this article was by the leading Nazi physician Karl Brandt who was hanged for his crimes against humanity. Both abortion and euthanasia were legalised in Germany before the Second World War and these acts are, by many, considered a precursor for the horrors that Germany was to unleash.
5. The Judas Masking Effect
Judas provides a biblical example that provides some perspective as to those who advocate for euthanasia. There is the story of Mary anointing Jesus in John 12. After these events transpire Judas protests and asks why the expensive ointment was not sold and the money received given to the poor. Now on the face of this evidence it appears as if Judas is acting very nobly. However, it is revealed that Judas actually helped himself to the moneybag. The moral of this story is to look beyond what people are saying and ascertain why they are saying it. In the case of euthanasia there are several advantages for the health sector to be in favour of the proposed changes. Not only does it open up more beds but other resources like staff time and pain-dulling medication can be transferred to the treatable patients.
6. Winning in Extra Time
For many individuals the choice between assisted and unassisted death is only a matter of time. However, from a Christian perspective time may enable a person to conquer death. These may be rare occasions but they are certainly worth fighting for. Take for instances the convicted criminal hanging on the cross beside Jesus (Luke 23:39 – 43). He is in the process of dying an excruciating death. Now proponents of the euthanasia advancement would likely say the humane thing would be to allow this man to die a painless death back in his cell, say be lethal injection. However, by being placed into contact with the glory of Jesus, even while the life drained out of him, enabled this sinner to be taken to paradise with Jesus.
7. Humans are not merely animals
Much to Peter Singer’s protestations humans are not merely animals. The complexity with which we interact with each other is testament to this. As we are not animals the measure of our life is different. Jesus tells us that our value is much greater than a sparrow (Matt. 10:31) or indeed any animal. So when we “put down” a pet out of mercy to do so to a family member would not be so merciful. This is because something more than flesh dies when a human dies. Suffering does not end at death for the non-believer.
I have outlined seven reasons as to why Christians should not condone legalised euthanasia. These are not all the reasons. Can you think of any reasons to support euthanasia? Which position has more justification? Have your say on our forum.
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