A Time to Live: The Cases Against Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

Addressing the foundational imperative that cherishes life under all circumstances, this book is about the choice of the kind of world we want to live in, and argues that this is a Christian heritage which is likely to be squandered. George Pitcher reaffirms the view that death is part of life: there is a long tradition of the acceptance of suffering. By contrast, the modern alternative—right to die becomes duty to die—looks utilitarian, the culling of the weak. There are worrying implications for the provision of care. We are being asked to consider the economics of suicide. Despite recent advances in palliative care there is a sad lack of investment, made worse by this callous approach. In Oregon and Holland, where euthanasia is licensed, there has been a marked fall in palliative care. George Pitcher concludes with a strong celebration of life, in which death plays its part. He argues that this approach empowers medical staff and leads to the regeneration of pastoral care.