The spiked podcast 321: The horror of ‘assisted dying’
Nov 28, 2024
Jacob Reynolds, a regular contributor known for his incisive commentary, joins Tom Slater and Fraser Myers to explore the controversial assisted-dying bill pushed by a Labour MP. They delve into the profound ethical dilemmas surrounding legalized assisted suicide and discuss societal implications for the elderly and vulnerable. Additionally, the trio tackles a debate on potential blasphemy laws, unpacking the tension between free speech and religious criticism, highlighting the risks faced by dissenters in today's politically charged climate.
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Canada's Expansion of Assisted Dying
- Canada expanded assisted dying from terminally ill patients to those with chronic illnesses.
- A man with back pain nearly received assisted dying due to homelessness, not illness.
The Slippery Slope of Assisted Dying
- Legalizing assisted dying creates a "right", making it discriminatory to deny it.
- This "slippery slope" is evident as countries expand eligibility beyond initial limits.
The Paradox of Freedom
- MPs supporting assisted dying often restrict other freedoms (e.g., anti-smoking laws).
- They champion the "freedom" to end life, reflecting a societal decline in valuing individual agency.