Legalization of Euthanasia: Critics and False Theological Arguments

Abstract

Inspired by compassion for the suffering and with the best of intentions, a number of contemporary theologians, especially Anglican, have initiated a campaign to legalize euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide, bringing both principled and practical arguments which, however, come in contradiction with the official position of the Christian Churches. Their campaign directly undermines the sanctity of life, one of the fundamental principles of Christian ethics, medical ethics and criminal law. It is a principle that recognizes and affirms the fundamental equality of people in dignity, protecting in particular the most vulnerable members of society.