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The Dissenter

#1084 Patrick Hassan: The Pilosophy of Suicide

Apr 14, 2025
Patrick Hassan, a Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University specializing in moral and existential philosophy, dives into the intricate philosophy of suicide. He explores its moral implications and contrasts philosophical inquiries with scientific perspectives. Hassan highlights the historical evolution of suicide thinking, particularly through the lens of 19th-century thinkers like Nietzsche and Schopenhauer. He also discusses the impact of societal attitudes on individual suffering and advocates for a compassionate understanding of this complex issue.
54:43

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The philosophy of suicide explores moral implications and rationality, emphasizing individual duty amidst evolving historical perspectives on the subject.
  • Contemporary discussions integrate empirical insights from various fields, recognizing the complex emotional and social dimensions surrounding suicidal behavior.

Deep dives

Understanding the Philosophy of Suicide

The philosophy of suicide examines the underlying reasons and moral implications of suicidal behavior. Key questions include whether suicide can be rational and under what circumstances it might be morally permissible or even required. This exploration typically falls under moral philosophy, focusing on concepts like duty to oneself and society. It distinguishes itself from empirical fields such as psychology and sociology, which study the causes of suicide from a more observational standpoint.

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