Quote:
Originally Posted by Botnst
Yep, that's the nub of the problem right there.
What is life? I mean, a tomato plant lives. And it may even have a good life, for a tomato ... from a tomato's perspective. Same with a shark, a botanist or a philosopher.
Also, we usually don't frame the argument using life alone. Usually we use the term, "quality of life." Is Paris Hilton's "quality of life" better than a starving Haitian dying of cholera? Most of us would probably say, "yes."
Does that mean we should put the Haitian to death?
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I would say that the Haitian should be allowed to die if it is what he wishes. If he/she is sentient, why should they NOT be allowed to use their discretion? OTOH, if you want to talk of retarded being, that might not be so which leaves it up to the POA designated to look out for his/her well-being.