Right to Die: Philosophy in Action Podcast

In the 2 December 2012 episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, I discussed right to die, and I thought it might be of interest. The question was:

Is there a right to die and/or a right to be killed? Does a person have a right to die? If so, under what conditions? Moreover, does a person unable to kill himself (due to illness) have a right to be killed by a willing person?

My Answer, In Brief: A person has a right to take his own life, but the law should take steps to ensure that any suicide is done voluntarily by a competent person.

Download or Listen to My Full Answer:

• Duration: 11:25
• Download: MP3 Segment

Tags: Death, Ethics, Law, Suicide Relevant Links:

• Philosophy in Action: Interview with Dr. William Dale on End-of-Life Medical Choices
• This Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Murder-Suicide Is Troubling
• NoodleFood: Flight from Facts in the Terri Schiavo Case

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread. A podcast of the full episode – where I answered questions on moral luck, parental support of adult children, guaranteed pensions for government employees, right to die, and more – is available as a podcast here: Episode of 2 December 2012. Philosophy in Action Radio broadcasts on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap.