The Dissenter

#1152 Michael Cholbi: The Philosophy of Death and Dying

12 snips
Sep 19, 2025
Guest
Michael Cholbi
Dr. Michael Cholbi, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh, delves into the complex philosophy surrounding death and dying. He discusses various definitions of death, the ethical implications of immortality, and whether death can be seen as harmful. The conversation moves to suicide, examining its medical and moral dimensions, alongside discussions on autonomy and the right to die. Cholbi also tackles the controversial topics of assisted dying and the varying interpretations of dignity, making for a thought-provoking listen.
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INSIGHT

Immortality Could Be Good Or Bad

  • Immortality may suit some people and not others; Bernard Williams' boredom objection argues endless life becomes tedious.
  • Whether immortality is good depends on individual capacity to find endless worthwhile pursuits.
INSIGHT

Suicide Needs More Than Medicine

  • Suicide is multifaceted: medical, psychological, moral and philosophical angles all matter.
  • Treating suicide only medically misses questions about meaning, autonomy, and prudential reasons for living.
INSIGHT

Suicide Is Choosing Timing

  • Suicide isn't choosing death but choosing to die earlier rather than later.
  • Rational and moral defensibility depend on circumstances; universal claims about suicide are suspect.
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