Dignified death: a German perspective.

Abstract

After discussing some defining questions concerning dignified death, active and passive euthanasia, assisted suicide and the criteria for free will and informed consent, the juridical situation in Germany is reported. Passive euthanasia according to the patients' free will is accepted, assisted suicide, active euthanasia, and passive euthanasia without informed consent are not accepted. The ethical discussion on these topics in Germany reveals a spectrum of opinions. There is somewhat more emphasis on the cons than on the pros. Humanistic and economic arguments merge in the debate. The philosophy of consequentialistic utilitarianism is heavily criticized by many authors who warn that respect even for the unproductive life must not fade. After some remarks on empirical studies on attitudes towards death and the history of attitudes towards euthanasia the conclusion lists the arguments, pros and cons, and gives a personal view.