Choosing to Die: Elective Death and Multiculturalism

In this book, C. G. Prado addresses the difficult question of when and whether it is rational to end one’s life in order to escape devastating terminal illness. He specifically considers this question in light of the impact of multiculturalism on perceptions and judgements about what is right and wrong, permissible and impermissible. Prado introduces the idea of a ‘coincidental culture’ to clarify the variety of values and commitments that influence decision. He also introduces the idea of a ‘proxy premise’ to deal with reasoning issues that are raised by intractably held beliefs. Primarily intended for medical ethicists, this book will be of interest to anyone concerned about the ability of modern medicine to keep people alive, thereby forcing people to choose between living and dying. In addition, Prado calls upon medical ethicists and practitioners to appreciate the value of a theoretical basis for their work.

• Accessible treatment of complex questions • Addresses issue of multicultural influences about suicide • Provides a theoretical basis for present practices used to deal with terminal patients wanting to die.

Contents

1. Setting the stage; 2. Criteria for rational suicide; 3. Clarifying and revising the criteria; 4. Application issues; 5. What standards?; 6. Relativism and cross-cultural assessment; 7. The role of religion; 8. Assessment latitude; 9. The realities of cross-cultural assessment.