The Thomistic Institute John Paul II on the Value of Human Life and Euthanasia – Prof. Christopher Tollefsen
Jan 23, 2026
In this discussion, Christopher Tollefsen, a Professor of Philosophy known for his work in ethics and bioethics, dives into the intricate issues surrounding euthanasia and the value of human life. Tollefsen highlights John Paul II’s teachings on the sanctity of life, asserting that any direct voluntary killing of the innocent is gravely immoral. He also critiques the common assumptions equating treatment refusal with assisted death and discusses the ethical implications of public policy regarding abortion versus physician-assisted suicide.
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Absolute Norm Against Intentionally Killing
- John Paul II teaches that "direct and voluntary killing of an innocent human being is always gravely immoral."
- This norm is grounded in natural reason, scripture, and church teaching and protects life as an intrinsic good.
Life As An Intrinsic Good
- Life is an intrinsic good, not merely instrumental, and must be protected by moral norms like "thou shalt not kill."
- Moral absolutes must be specified by intention to avoid absurd bans on all actions that might causally shorten life.
Intent Matters In Moral Absolutes
- The prohibition against killing applies to intending death, not all acts that foreseeably cause death.
- Specifying the norm by intention preserves its absoluteness while allowing hard choices in triage or martyrdom.
