The denial of meaning in life. Why assisted suicide concerns us all

Abstract

Definition of the problem: The ethical debate about assisted suicide remains controversial and is also based in part on assumptions that are taken for granted, but which, on closer inspection, lack justification. Arguments: The article develops a new approach by focusing on the social dimension of the denial of meaning in life, which is often expressed by suicides. For a fundamental social connection is included in the human orientation towards the goal of a meaningful life, namely an implicit appreciation of human beings as potential sources of meaning and as subjects of judgments about the meaningfulness. Suicides tend to negate this connection. Conclusion: This view of suicide can, among other things, help to adquately understand the meaning of (assisted) suicide and justify the widely shared assumptions of a primacy of suicide prevention and a conscientious objection right of doctors.