Classification as Deviant Final
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Jan 9, 2024
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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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reclassification remains contentious, with solid arguments on both sides of the debate,
highlighting the evolving nature of societal and ethical perspectives on life and death matters
(Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019).
Reclassification as Non-Deviant
Changing Perceptions and Arguments
In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how society views physician-assisted
suicide. This change is partly due to a greater emphasis on individual autonomy and the rights of
patients to make informed choices about their own lives, including the decision to end their
suffering.
Symbolic interactionism, as applied to the societal perception of physician-assisted
suicide (PAS), emphasizes the role of social interactions in constructing meanings. This
sociological perspective views the meaning of PAS as not fixed but evolving through
conversations, media portrayal, and personal experiences. As societal discussions around
autonomy, dignity in death, and ethical medical practices intensify, the collective understanding
of PAS shifts. These dialogues, influenced by changing cultural, ethical, and legal viewpoints,
actively reshape how PAS is perceived, transitioning it from a strictly deviant act to one with
nuanced understanding and acceptance.
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Benefits and Manifest Functions
One of the primary arguments for reclassifying PAS as non-deviant is the benefit it offers
to terminally ill patients in terms of autonomy, dignity, and relief from suffering. For many
patients, the choice of PAS is a way to maintain control over their life and death, especially in
cases of debilitating and painful illnesses.
The manifest function, or PAS's intended and recognized consequence, is to provide a
humane option for ending life, thereby reducing suffering. It also respects the patient's right to
choose, aligning with contemporary values of individual rights and personal freedom.
Latent Functions and Societal Impact
The latent functions, or the unintended consequences of reclassifying PAS, could be
positive and negative. On the positive side, it might lead to more open discussions about death
and dying, improving end-of-life care and decision-making. It could also encourage the medical
community to focus more on the quality of life issues.
However, there are potential adverse latent functions. For instance, there could be a
gradual shift in societal attitudes towards the value of life, especially concerning the elderly,
disabled, or those with chronic illnesses. There is also a risk of normalizing suicide as a solution
to life's problems, which could have broader societal implications.
Supporting Evidence and Considerations
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Current Research and Expert Opinions
Current research and expert opinions enrich the debate over PAS. For instance, a study
examining the characteristics of patients requesting and receiving PAS revealed that those opting
for assistance are typically seriously ill, with limited life expectancy and significant physical
suffering (Characteristics of patients requesting and receiving physician-assisted death, n.d.).
Additionally, the role of patient autonomy in healthcare decisions, a fundamental principle in
bioethics, significantly influences the discussion around PAS (Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in
Dying, 2019).
Statistical Data on PAS Impact
Statistical data from regions where PAS is legal offer valuable insights. In the United
States, states like Oregon have seen a steady increase in the number of lethal prescriptions
written annually since legalizing PAS, with a notable rise following high-profile cases (Pros and
Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019). However, these statistics also highlight concerns like the
potential for suicide contagion, where the legalization of PAS might inadvertently increase non-
assisted suicides (Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019).
Comparative Analysis of Different Countries
A comparative analysis of countries with differing stances on PAS sheds light on its
varied impacts. For example, in Belgium and the Netherlands, where euthanasia is legal, the
criteria for granting euthanasia requests have expanded over time, raising concerns about the
potential risks of such practices (Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019). In contrast,
other countries maintain strict prohibitions, underscoring this issue's moral and ethical
complexities.
Real-life Examples and Societal Impact
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Real-life examples, such as the case of Brittany Maynard in the U.S., who chose to end
her life through PAS, have sparked national debates and influenced public opinion (Pros and
Cons of Physician Aid in Dying, 2019). These cases highlight the personal nature of PAS
decisions and their profound societal impact, including changing perceptions of life, death, and
dignity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate over physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is a complex and
multifaceted issue that intersects with ethical, legal, medical, and societal dimensions. This paper
has explored the historical context of PAS, its varying legal status across regions, and the diverse
societal views that influence its acceptance and implementation. The arguments for and against
PAS, underscored by expert opinions, current research, and real-life examples, highlight the
profound moral and ethical considerations involved.
The statistical data from regions where PAS is legal, such as Oregon, and comparative
analyses across different countries have provided valuable insights into the potential outcomes
and consequences of legalizing or prohibiting PAS. These findings emphasize the importance of
careful consideration and rigorous ethical scrutiny in shaping policies and practices around PAS.
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The central issues of patient autonomy, relief of suffering, and the societal implications of PAS
remain at the forefront of this debate. As societies continue to evolve and confront new ethical
challenges, it is imperative to maintain a dialogue that respects diverse perspectives and upholds
the dignity and rights of individuals at the end of their lives.
Ultimately, the discourse on PAS reflects broader questions about the nature of life, death,
and human dignity. As this debate continues, it will be crucial to balance individual rights with
societal responsibilities, ensuring that decisions regarding PAS are made with compassion,
understanding, and respect for the complexities of human life.
References
1.
Dugdale, L. S., Lerner, B. H., & Callahan, D. (2019). Pros and Cons of Physician Aid
in Dying. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 92(4), 747–750.
2.
Laws, T. (2019). How Race Matters in the Physician-Assisted Suicide Debate.
Religion & Politics.
3.
Meier, D., Emmons, C. A., & Litke, A. (2003). Characteristics of Patients Requesting
and Receiving Physician-Assisted Death. JAMA Network.
4.
Regoli, N. (2019). 19 Main Pros and Cons of Legalizing Physician-Assisted Suicide.
ConnectUS.
5.
Weir, K. (2017). Assisted Dying: The Motivations, Benefits, and Pitfalls of Hastening
Death. American Psychological Association.