Child euthanasia
Child Euthanasia
Child euthanasia (pronunciation: /ˈjuːθənaɪziə/) is a controversial medical practice involving the purposeful ending of a child's life to alleviate suffering or terminal illness. The term is derived from the Greek words eu (good) and thanatos (death), meaning "good death".
History
The concept of euthanasia has been present in medical and ethical discussions for centuries, but the specific issue of child euthanasia is a relatively recent development. It is closely tied to the broader debates surrounding medical ethics, children's rights, and end-of-life care.
Legal Status
Child euthanasia is currently legal in a few countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium, under strict conditions. In most other jurisdictions, it is considered illegal and is often conflated with murder or infanticide.
Ethical Considerations
The ethical considerations surrounding child euthanasia are complex and multifaceted. They involve questions of autonomy, consent, pain and suffering, and the value of life. Many ethicists argue that children, particularly very young ones, cannot give informed consent to euthanasia, making the practice ethically problematic.
Medical Considerations
From a medical perspective, child euthanasia is typically considered only in cases of severe, incurable illness where the child is experiencing significant suffering. The decision is usually made by a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and psychologists, in consultation with the child's parents or guardians.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Child euthanasia
- Wikipedia's article - Child euthanasia
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