The 60-Second Aquinas
Lesson
BRIEF TITLE
October 27, 1998
The Catechism of the Catholic Church differentiates between direct and indirect euthanasia, also called active and passive euthanasia.
The difference between the two is the action taken. In direct euthanasia, an action is taken by which one ends the life of someone else. Indirect euthanasia consists of "discontinuing medical procedures that are burdensome, dangerous, extraordinary, or disproportionate to the expected outcome" (Catechism 2278).
At first glance, the two might seem similar when considered in light of Thomistic philosophy. Each is aimed toward the same end – death. Each is thought to be done out of compassion, though direct euthanasia, as discussed in yesterday’s lesson, is a result of "misplaced compassion" (Evangelium Vitae Ch. 15)
To differentiate between the two, we might again refer to Aquinas’ discussion of homicide in which he says, "we ought to love the nature which God has made" and "God is Lord of death and life" (ST II-II Q. 64, Art. 6).
Direct euthanasia puts life and death in the hands of man. On the other hand, indirect euthanasia – allowing someone to die by not taking extraordinary measures – respects the nature God has made and recognizes his authority regarding life and death.
Explanation of The 60-Second Aquinas Lesson
