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More Impertinent Distinctions And A Defense Of Active Euthanasia

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Utilitarianism is a philosophical theory that claims that the morally right action is the one that produces more good and fewer dire consequences for everyone than any other action. Rule utilitarianism is a version that emphasizes the importance of following rules that promote the most important overall happiness or well-being for the most significant number of people. James Rachels, in his work "More Impertinent Distinctions and a Defense of Active Euthanasia," argues that in the case of euthanasia, "if an action promotes the best interests of everyone concerned, and violates no one's rights, then that action is morally acceptable." He argues that "in at least some cases, active euthanasia promotes the best interests of everyone concerned …show more content…

According to Rachels, allowing individuals to make decisions about their own lives, including the decision to end their own lives, is an essential aspect of respect for autonomy. Rule utilitarians might argue that respecting people's autonomy promotes overall happiness by allowing them to live according to their values and preferences. Additionally, allowing euthanasia is a way to alleviate suffering for individuals who are facing terminal illnesses or unbearable pain. Reducing suffering is a critical aspect of promoting overall happiness, and allowing euthanasia might be seen as a way to achieve this goal. Since no one is happy while suffering, they want to be alleviated from said suffering as fast as possible. Rule utilitarians might also argue that allowing euthanasia is a way to improve the quality of life for individuals who are facing terminal illness or unbearable suffering. If an individual's quality of life is inferior, they might feel that their life is not worth living and that ending their own life is the only option. Allowing euthanasia in these cases might be seen as a way to promote overall happiness by allowing individuals to make decisions that reflect their values and

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