Ned's father Mr. Flanders is in a persistent vegetative state. In recent days, several of Ned's siblings have discussing their options. Included in their discussion has been the possibility of resorting to active or passive euthanasia. First, describe the characteristics of someone in a persistent vegetative state. Then describe and provide examples of how active and passive euthanasia might

Question

occur. Finally, discuss the legality of these options (you may want to describe the country and/or state in which Mr. Flanders currently resides).

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A persistent vegetative state is a situation in which a person's cortical functioning ceases while brainstem activity continues. Persistent vegetative state allows for spontaneous heartbeat and respiration but not for consciousness. Active euthanasia involves the deliberate ending of someone's life. An example of active euthanasia would be administering a drug overdose. Passive euthanasia involves allowing a person to die by withholding available treatment. For example, food might be withdrawn. Several countries, including Switzerland, Belgium, and Columbia tolerate physician-assisted suicide. The Netherlands was the first country to have an official policy legalizing physician-assisted suicide. In the U.S., Oregon, Washington, and Vermont have laws that make it legal for people to request a lethal dose of medication if they have a terminal disease and make the request voluntarily.