Euthanasia: Understanding Dr. Jack Kevorkian's Stand
What is Dr. Jack Kevorkian known for supporting and participating in?
a) the cortical death policy.
b) California's Natural Death Act.
c) passive euthanasia.
d) active euthanasia.
Answer:
Dr. Jack Kevorkian is well known for his support of and participation in active euthanasia. The correct answer is option (d).
Dr. Jack Kevorkian believed that terminally ill patients had the right to end their lives with dignity and without suffering. He developed a device called the "Mercitron" that allowed patients to self-administer a lethal dose of medication.
Kevorkian was a controversial figure who was often criticized for his methods and his disregard for the law. However, his advocacy for the right to die sparked important discussions about end-of-life care and ethical decision-making.
It is worth noting that the other options listed in the question - the cortical death policy, California's Natural Death Act, and passive euthanasia - are also relevant to the topic of end-of-life care and ethical decision-making.
The cortical death policy refers to the criteria for determining brain death, while California's Natural Death Act allows patients to refuse life-sustaining treatment. Passive euthanasia involves withholding or withdrawing medical treatment to allow a patient to die naturally.
However, Dr. Jack Kevorkian is most closely associated with the concept of active euthanasia, making option (d) the correct answer.