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KMID : 1025620090120020143
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Korean Journal of Medical Ethics
2009 Volume.12 No. 2 p.143 ~ p.152
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Killing or Letting Die? On the Intended Act of Anticipating Death
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Kim Moon-Jeong
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Abstract
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The question of what is a “good” and “dignified” death for a terminally ill patient is difficult to answer. The Code of Medical Ethics of the Korean Medical Association forbids physicians from participating in euthanasia. The code also approves of the withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining medical treatment in certain conditions. Most legal experts seem to believe that while active and direct euthanasia is not permissible, passive euthanasia or “death with dignity” is acceptable. Indirect euthanasia as an anticipated side-effect, in which the patient dies as a result of analgesic treatment administered to alleviate pain, is legally permitted. There are various considerations that help to justify indirect euthanasia, such as the absence of an intention to murder and its acceptance as a form of permitted risk. This article examines some of the legal and ethical issues associated with indirect euthanasia and intended acts of willful negligence.
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KEYWORD
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Indirect euthanasia, Anticipated death, Intended act, A dignified death
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