Ethics and Values Case Study –
Mercy Killing, Euthanasia
A 24-year-old man named Robert who
has a wife and child is paralyzed from the neck down in a motorcycle accident.
He has always been very active and hates the idea of being paralyzed. He also
is in a great deal of pain, an he has asked his doctors and other members of
his family to “put him out of his misery.” After several days of such
pleading, his brother comes into Robert’s hospital ward and asks him if he is
sure he still wantes to be put out of his misery. Robert says yes and pleads
with his brother to kill him. The brother kisses and blesses Robert, then takes
out a gun and shoots him, killing him instantly. THe brother later is tried for
murder and acquitted by reason of temporary insanity.
Was what Robert’s brother did
moral? Do you think he should have been brought to trial at all? Do you think
he should have been acquitted? Would you do the same for a loved one if you
were asked?
