Euthanasia as a Historical and Legal Phenomenon: Some Aspects of Philosophical, Religious Studies, and Theological Understanding of the Problem
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Questions of life and death are among the most relevant and frequently discussed by thinkers of all time. With the development of scientific and medical technologies that allow for a longer and higher quality of human life, the question of "quality" of death also arises. According to both legal and religious norms, every person has the right to life. However, the issue concerning the "right to die" is quite complex and multifaceted in modern jurisprudence and in some other research areas, and it is often distanced from in religious traditions, including Christian ones. The aim of this study is to examine the question of the "right to die" in the form of euthanasia from both theological and scientific (philosophical) perspectives. The methodological basis of the research combines modern philosophical religious studies, philosophical theology, phenomenological and historical-semiotic analysis of basic terms used by various researchers to describe and systemically understand the complex and multifaceted issues related to euthanasia. The novelty of the proposed research lies in a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach that combines data from historical, linguistic, philosophical, ethical, religious, and legal sciences in understanding the controversial phenomenon of "dignified death" or euthanasia. As a result of the research, the diversity of views on the problem of the "right to die" was highlighted. While a significant portion of the scientific community sees the solution to this problem through euthanasia, the Christian church does not allow interference with divine providence, viewing euthanasia solely as murder or suicide. Even end-of-life suffering is seen as a certain spiritual stage necessary for both the dying person and their loved ones. There is unity of opinion regarding the need to prepare the dying for a peaceful conclusion of life, which is expressed in the idea of euthalia.
Source: Философская мысль
Author: Natalia Mikhailovna Markova
Institution: Vladimir State University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204956616