14.06.12
The nuances of neutrality
The question of assisted dying is clearly a sensitive one, and major medical organisations may have some responsibility for maintaining the ‘right’ position.
But when it is literally a matter of life or death, the right answers can be difficult to define. How can the BMA decide which stance is most appropriate for it to take?
And should this stance change in line with changing attitudes in society?
Many object to legalising assisted dying due to the slippery slope of harm it could lead to, and the practical difficulties in setting up adequate protection for the most vulnerable patients.
Of course, a neutral position is quite different from supporting the practice. But it is one step closer to a wider acceptance of something that might one day become both socially and legally acceptable.
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