Trinity Forum Conversations Living Well and Dying Well with Lydia Dugdale
Jun 10, 2025
Lydia Dugdale, a physician and medical ethicist in NYC, dives deep into the complexities of life and death through the lens of the Christian tradition. She champions open discussions about death, emphasizing its significance in our lives. The conversation touches on the decline of historical practices surrounding dying, the role of faith communities in end-of-life decisions, and how modern technology intersects with compassionate care. Ultimately, Lydia encourages embracing life fully while holding a profound understanding of mortality's place in our journey.
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Historical Views on Death
- Historically, high mortality and an enchanted worldview kept death a central topic in life.
- Modern squeamishness and secularism have made death a less discussed subject.
Grandfather Demystified Death
- Lydia Dugdale grew up with open family discussions about death, influenced by her grandfather's wartime survival.
- This openness shaped her calm attitude toward death, contrasting with typical medical avoidance.
The Lost Art of Dying
- The 'Ars Moriendi' genre of manuals guided people on how to prepare for death effectively.
- Despite centuries of influence, this wisdom faded around 100 years ago in modern times.
