Essay on Their Eyes Were Watching God - 1371 Words

Their Eyes Were Watching God In Their Eyes Were Watching God, Janie battles to find Individualism within herself. Janie, all her life, had been pushed around and told what to do and how to live her life. She searched and searched high and low to find a peace that makes her whole and makes her feel like a complete person. To make her feel like she is in fact an individual and that she’s not like everyone else around her. During the time of ‘Their Eyes’, the correct way to treat women was to show them who was in charge and who was inferior. Men were looked to as the superior being, the one who women were supposed to look up to and serve. Especially in the fact that Janie was an African American women during these oppressed†¦show more content†¦This is exactly what Janie did in her marriage to Logan. She did as she was told, or rather, expected to do. Janie didn’t want to marry Logan, but if it made her grandmother happy, then by all means, why not give it a shot. If it meant that she’d be secure. In her marriage to Logan, she found out that that’s not what she wanted. Janie wanted love, happieness, comfort and enjoyment. She didn’t want her first marriage to be like a prison sentence. â€Å"Did marriage end the cosmic loneliness of the unmated, did it compel love like the sun the day?† This is asking if marriage made love for Janie as the sun makes the day for the world. Is the basis of love marriage...just as the basis for day is the sun. To Janie, this was not true. She did not feel as though she loved Logan, and that’s all she really wanted. She didn’t want to be treated as the rest of the world was treated. She wanted to be treated as an individual and not as a slave. She was a slave to marriage. She didn’t want to be there, where there was no warmth. Joe Starks stole Janie away from Logan. He saved her from the boringness of their dull marriage. He woed her with his words of kindness. He promised her happieness. â€Å"De day you puts yo’ hand in mine, Ah wouldn’t let de sun go down on us single. You ain’t never knowed what it was to be treated lak a lady and Ah wants to be de one tuh showShow MoreRelatedTheir Eyes Were Watching God1064 Words   |  5 Pagessignificant than death. In Zora Neale Hurston’s famous novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, the main character Janie Crawford is plagued by the deaths of loved ones. Janie moves from caregiver to caregiver searching for true love and happiness, only to have it stripped away from her once she finds it in her third husband Tea Cake. At the end of the novel, having realized true love and loss, Janie is a whole woman. Their Eyes Were Watching God portrays the growth of the human spirit through both the emotionalRead MoreTheir Eyes Were Watching G od1780 Words   |  8 Pagesshort story â€Å"Sweat† and novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, the focus is on women who want better lives but face difficult struggles before gaining them. The difficulties involving men which Janie and Delia incur result from or are exacerbated by the intersection of their class, race, and gender, which restrict each woman for a large part of her life from gaining her independence. Throughout a fair part of Zora Neal Hurston’s novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Janie’s low class create problemsRead MoreTheir Eyes Were Watching God932 Words   |  4 PagesJanie Crawford: The Woman Whose Clothing Conveys Her Relationships In Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God, the protagonist, Janie, endures two marriages before finding true love. In each of Janie’s marriages, a particular article of clothing is used to symbolically reflect, not only her attitude at different phases in her life, but how she is treated in each relationship. In Janie’s first marriage with Logan Killicks, an apron is used to symbolize the obligation in her marriage. â€Å"Read More Eyes Were Watching God Essay711 Words   |  3 Pages Their Eyes Were Watching God provides an enlightening look at the journey of a quot;complete, complex, undiminished human beingquot;, Janie Crawford. Her story, based on self-exploration, self-empowerment, and self-liberation, details her loss and attainment of her innocence and freedom as she constantly learns and grows from her experiences with gender issues, racism, and life. The story centers around an important theme; that personal discoveries and life experiences help a person findRead MoreAnalysis Of Their Eyes Were Watching God 1061 Words   |  5 PagesDivision: Janie Crawford in Their Eyes Were Watching God Their Eyes Were Watching God was written in 1937 by Zora Neale Hurston. This story follows a young girl by the name of Janie Crawford. Janie Crawford lived with her grandmother in Eatonville, Florida. Janie was 16 Years old when her grandmother caught her kissing a boy out in the yard. After seeing this her grandmother told her she was old enough to get married, and tells her she has found her a husband by the name of Logan. Logan was a muchRead More Their Eyes Were Watching God Essay1757 Words   |  8 Pages Their Eyes Were Watching God Book Report 1. Title: Their Eyes Were Watching God 2. Author/Date Written: Zora Neale Hurston/1937 3. Country of Author: 4. Characters Janie Mae Crawford- The book’s main character. She is a very strong willed, independent person. She is able to defy a low class, unhappy life because of these factors, even though the environment that she grew up and lived in was never on her side. Pheoby Watson – Janie’s best friend in Eatonville. Pheoby is the only towns person whoRead MoreWhose eyes were watching God?1400 Words   |  6 PagesWhose eyes were watching God? In the movie Their Eyes Were Watching God, Oprah Winfrey manipulates events that happened in the book by Zora Neale Hurston. Oprah morphs many relationships in the movie Their Eyes Were Watching God. She changes the role of gender, and also makes changes in Janie’s character strength. Oprah also changes the symbolism in the movie to where some important symbols in the book change to less important roles. Oprah changes many important events in the book Their Eyes WereRead MoreTheir Eyes Were Watching God Essay724 Words   |  3 PagesTHEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD ESSAY  ¬Ã‚ ¬ Janie Crawford is surrounded by outward influences that contradict her independence and personal development. These outward influences from society, her grandma, and even significant others contribute to her curiosity. Tension builds between outward conformity and inward questioning, allowing Zora Neal Hurston to illustrate the challenge of choice and accountability that Janie faces throughout the novel. Janie’s Grandma plays an important outward influenceRead MoreEssay on Their Eyes Were Watching God921 Words   |  4 PagesTheir Eyes Were Watching God An Analysis So many people in modern society have lost their voices. Laryngitis is not the cause of this sad situation-- they silence themselves, and have been doing so for decades. For many, not having a voice is acceptable socially and internally, because it frees them from the responsibility of having to maintain opinions. For Janie Crawford, it was not: she finds her voice among those lost within the pages of Zora Neale Hurston’s famed novel, Their Eyes Were WatchingRead MoreTheir Eyes Were Watching God By Zora Hurston Essay1233 Words   |  5 PagesHurston In the novel â€Å"Their Eyes Were Watching God† by Zora Neal Hurston is about a young woman named Janie Crawford who goes on a journey of self discovery to find her independence. The book touches on many themes like gender roles, relations, independence and racism however racism isn’t mainly focused upon in the book which some writers felt should have been. Some felt that the representation of black characters should have been better role models. Zora Hurston’s novel wasn’t like other black literature

Why Absolute Rulers Believe On Divine Right - 1737 Words

Why did absolute rulers believe in divine right? How did this put them at odds with the common people? Absolute rulers believed in divine right, where monarchs are given the power to rule by God and are responsible only to God. They held this belief because it set them apart from the citizens they governed and instilled a feeling of fear and respect among their subjects. It also helped ensure that no one would question their leadership. However, this put them at odds with the common people because many citizens did not believe in divine right. They wanted to have a say in how the government was run and the decisions they made. List the 2 major contracts/documents that secured English rights and helped build a democratic gov’t. List 2 rights from each document. The Magna Carta of 1215 and the English Bill of Rights of 1689 were 2 documents that secured English rights and helped build a democratic gov’t. Both documents limited the monarch’s power and granted human rights to the subjects. The Bill of Rights included the right to petition the king, no excessive bail, and no cruel and unusual punishment The Magna Carta grants the right to trial by jury, due process, and swift justice. Did the English Civil War improve the English gov’t? Why or why not? Bill of Rights Who: William Mary and Parliament What: The Bill of Rights was a formal summary of the rights and liberties that were essential to all people. Those included the right to petition the king, no excessiveShow MoreRelatedThe View of Absolute Monarchies1125 Words   |  5 PagesThe View of Absolute Monarchies The extent to which rulers and their subjects viewed the role of an absolute monarch was different. The time of this political issue on absolute monarchies was around the 1600s. There were people for the absolute monarchies, people with their own monarchies and people against monarchies. Each one had there own idea for what the role of the monarchy was the people against it thought it was oppressive the people for it thought it was because people couldn’t ruleRead MoreThomas Hobbes : The Age Of Reason1313 Words   |  6 PagesHobbes experienced the tragedies of war, he held the belief that all humans were born evil and mischievous and that they need an absolute sovereign or they will remain in a constant state of war amongst themselves (Warrender). Increasingly Parliament and the king were in conflict over royal powers, especially regarding funds for an army. Charles I, believing in divine right, felt restricted by Parliament, while Parliament felt abused by the over-spending. In response to the growing conflict in EnglandRead MoreI Wandered Lonely as a Cloud Reflection Essay1711 Words   |  7 Pagesrealized the emotional escape they provide. of law. These strict codes made Sweden very prosperous by having well-controlled citizens and fewer riots. Soon he became a renowned ruler throughout Europe. The impact of this was very great and allowed Sweden to advance in warfare. With the citizens under control and their natural rights stripped, Charles XII went onto defeat Russia in the Battle of Narva. Russian soldiers lost about 10,000 men at the end of the battle, while the Swedish troop only lost 667Read MoreThe Pros And Cons Of King Philip II864 Words   |  4 PagesWas Philip II of Spain a successful absolute monarch during his rule? Many people believe he had what it took to be absolute monarch, but there were several constraints he faced as a ruler in Spain. Philip II was known for building one of the largest empires from creating effective domestic and foreign policies to gain leadership of his kingdom instead of the local authorities in charge, but he did face problems while ruling the kingdom. His addressed many of these policies, such as the policy againstRead MoreJohn Locke: Second Treatise of Civil Government Essay1081 Words   |  5 PagesJames, Duke of York, who would later become King James II. Shaftesbury had tried to prevent Jamess right of succession, so he fled to Holland, and Locke followed. Locke returned to England with Queen Mary when she overthrew James II in the Glorious Revolution. The support which Locke showed for Mary demonstrates his mindset of politics, and shows his opposition towards despotic rulers and divine right. Locke saw many important men while in England, including Sir Isaac Newton, of whom he wrote. ThroughRead MoreThe Theory Of Divine Right1330 Words   |  6 PagesThroughout history, new ideas have always been formed from questions and different questions create new ideas. These five documents- â€Å"The Theory of Divine Right,† â€Å"Revocation of the Edict of Nantes,† The Social Contract, What is Enlightenment?, and The Declaration of Independence- each discuss a different idea and are substantial in the demonstration of this idea. These ideas have many differences and similarities. They may be significant in different revolutions, but they all pertain to differentRead MoreDbq: the Enlightenment Essay1184 Words   |  5 PagesEnlightenment known by many as the Age of Reason was a turning point in history. Man people believe that without the Enlightenment, many of the laws, and rules would exist. For example the United States Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were greatly influenced by the Enlightenment. For example, John Locke, an Enlightenment thinker highly influenced the Declaration of Independence by stating that the natural rights of people include life, liberty and property except the founding fathers changedRead MoreThe Unexamined Life Is Not Worth Living1450 Words   |  6 Pagesphilosophical context. As with the nature of philosophy itself, living philosophically is also ambiguous, and it could very well be that one lives philosophically even if they do not necessarily realize it. Take, for instance, a person who questions why humans and all life forms must die; or one who ponders their true meaning in life - are they not thinking philosophically? Regardless of whether or not they actually study philosophy, they are still critically thinking about the nature of being andRead MoreThe Theory Of Social Contract1709 Words   |  7 PagesContractualism, in general, is whether or not an action is deemed ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ can be understood in terms of co ntracts, and is furthered with the theory of social contract. Additionally, contractualism can be distinguished from Hobbesian contractualism (also known as contractarianism) and Kantian contractualism, whereby the former looks to contracts made by individuals of a society for the sake of personal gain and benefit, while the latter sees to contracts made by individuals of any givenRead MoreIslamic Thought: Despotism Replacing Despotism1541 Words   |  6 Pagesfrom the Quran, called sharia law. As a function of Islam and sharia law, Islamists are very hands on. Islamists like Ruhollah Khomeini and Hassan al-Turabi aren’t mere theologians but politicians that seek fulfillment of their visions. Islamists believe firmly that the only true way to realize their vision of â€Å"authentic Islam† is through an Islamic state, dominated by sharia law. Naturally, with the formation of a state, a government is needed to perform a variety of functions. Islamists go as far

Phosphorus Chemical Reactions Of Phosphorus And Its Importance Essay Example For Students

Phosphorus: Chemical Reactions Of Phosphorus And Its Importance Essay Abstract: Aluminum sulfate reacts with phosphates to createaluminum phosphate and a sulfate. The conversion of the phosphateto aluminum phosphate is very important because this allows thephosphate to be easily extracted. This manipulation is used todayin industrial waste treatment sights. The removal of phosphates isvery important for if phosphates are not removed, they plaguebodies of water by feeding algae which clog the surface waters andeventually effect every living and nonliving thing in thatenvironment. Chemical Process: The reactions which occur are the following:Aluminum sulfate(alum) in combination with wastewater canflocculate phosphorus. The Flocculation that happens with aluminumsulfate addition is the formation of aluminum phosphate particlesthat attach themselves to one another and become heavy and settleto the bottom of a clarifier. The aluminum sulfate and phosphorusmixture can then be withdrawn, thereby removing the phosphate orphosphorus from the wastewater flow. Industrial Applications: The application of this reaction to theindustrial world consists of a set of processes to filter out thephosphate. The setup is the following:Purpose: Restrict phosphates to aluminum phosphates for easierdisposal of phosphorus. The first step in phosphorus removal is the Rapid Mix. Inthis stage, alum and waste or water runoff(known as effluent) isblended together as rapidly as possible with the use of a high-speed mixer called a flash mixer. After this instant mixing, aslower moving process called coagulation and flocculation followsto allow the formation of a floc. These processes occur in aFlocculation Chamber. This floc consists of suspended and colloidalmatter, mainly including the aluminum phosphate. Next, theeffluent travels to a clarifier in which sedimentation occurs. Theheavier aluminum phosphate settles to the bottom then pumps at thebottom of the clarifier pump out the aluminum phosphate via pipes. This aluminum phosphate is then disposed. Currently, there are noeconomical uses for aluminum phosphate. Also, this chemical process is similar to the process used bylaundry detergents. Many detergents contain synthetic phosphates,called tripolyphosphates(TTPs). These chemicals cling to greaseand dirt particles(alum in the previous example), keeping them insuspension until the wash water is flushed out of the washingmachine. Impact on Society: This reduction in phosphorus is very important. This added phosphorus disrupts the natural cycle of phosphorus. Oneresult of this is an algal blooms, or exponential growth in algae. When algal blooms occur, the surface of a freshwater lake isclouded with an almost finite amount of bacteria because of anincrease in a nutrient. In this case an increase in phosphate, afavorite for algae. This deprives the bottom of the lake bycutting off light. A dense mat of algae choke off the lake. Also,phosphates are nutrients for plantlife. When fall approaches, orwhen phosphate levels are decreased, the algae die and fall to thebottom, changing the bottom from a silt, sand and clay bottom to asand gravel and rock bottom. When the plants die, they aredegraded by aerobic bacteria, which can deplete dissolved oxygen,killing aquatic organisms. As oxygen levels drop, anaerobicbacteria resume the breakdown and produce noxious products. All ofthis impairs navigation, fishing, swimming and recreationalboating. Total phosphorus removal through filters after using alum asa filtering aid achieves 70 to 95 percent efficiency. Phosphatesmust be filtered out before the water or wastes are dumped backinto bodies of water. GlossaryFlocculation: The gathering together of fine particles to formlarger particles. Effluent: Wastewater or other liquid raw, partially orcompletely treated flowing from a basin, treatment process, ortreatment plant. .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .postImageUrl , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:hover , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:visited , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:active { border:0!important; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:active , .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76 .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc4f2ddf44d4d053cf92314871e994f76:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Omar Khayyam The Enigma EssayCoagulation: The use of chemicals that cause very fine particlesto clump together into larger particles. This makes it easier toseparate the solids from the liquids by setting, skimming, drainingor filtering. Floc: Groups or clumps of bacteria and particles or coagulants andimpurities that have come together and formed a cluster. Colloidal: Very small and finely divided. Referring to solids. Does not dissolve and remains dispersed in a liquid for a long timedue to small size. Algal blooms: Rapid growth of algae in surface waters due toincrease in inorganic nutrients. BibliographyKerri, Kenneth D. Advanced Waste Treatment. Sacramento, Ca.: CSU,Sacramento, 1987. Adams, Melinda. Environmental Science. Redwood City, Ca.: TheBenjamin/Cummings Publishing Company, Inc., 1991.

Is Euthanasia a Morally Wrong Choice for Terminal Patients

Abstract Making decisions on whether to end the life of terminally ill patients is shrouded in controversies and disagreements, and is seen as an unethical act. This paper attempts to make arguments in support of euthanasia as an alternative form of healthcare for terminally ill patients whose quality of life is significantly reduced due to the effects of such an illness.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Is Euthanasia a Morally Wrong Choice for Terminal Patients? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The paper evaluates three perspectives in support of euthanasia: patient rights and autonomy, humanistic concern for patients’ happiness and utilitarianism view on the attainment of the highest happiness. Crucial evidence is drawn from real life and hypothetical cases to justify the arguments herein. It is imperative to note that the paper calls for euthanasia for only deserving patients, based on the quali ty of life, the terminal illnesses, patient’s consent and patients happiness. Additionally, the role of healthcare professionals becomes significantly important as it enhances professionalism as well as in helping to determine patients that deserve to be euthanized. Introduction End of life is one of the most critical periods in a person’s life, which becomes even more critical when terminal illness mediates the end of life process. Dealing with terminal illnesses is the hallmark of controversies surrounding the end of life process. As a result, various controversial views, such as assisting terminally ill patients in ending life, have emerged. Euthanasia, as assisted death is commonly referred to, generates debate, especially on ethical permissibility. . It is imperative to note that for both the opponents and proponents of euthanasia, the quality of life is usually the focal point, even though there is no agreement on the criteria of defining quality with regards to life. Nevertheless, there are situations in which euthanasia is not only justifiable but also the only ethically permissible act in alleviating pain for terminally ill patients. The paper evaluates three basic viewpoints for euthanasia and also attempts to justify the call for euthanasia through citing various forms of evidence.Advertising Looking for research paper on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Defining Euthanasia It is primarily assumed that healthcare is not only intended to eliminate human suffering but also to prolong life. Healthcare at the end of life has always been an issue of great controversy. Various treatment regimens, such as use of traditional treatment methods, seeking spiritual healing as well as science-based disease elimination methods have been developed (Buse, 2008). Suffice to state that the development of various treatment methods has also led to the emergence of legal, ethical and philosophical challenges (Munson, 1996). One such challenge is how to deal with terminal illnesses, with euthanasia increasingly becoming a preferred option. Euthanasia is shrouded in mystery and controversy. But defining it helps to address such controversies. The modern perception of euthanasia borrows from two Greek terminologies â€Å"‘eu’ implying good, and â€Å"thanasia’ implying death† (Coyle, 1992). Thus, while euthanasia refers to ‘good death’, a number of controversies emerge since euthanasia involves ending the life of an innocent person. Traditional treatment methods are not only intended to eliminate pain and suffering but also for the attainment of prolonged life. However, there are instances where treatment is ineffective or further prolongs a patient’s suffering. Some treatment methods also expose terminally ill patients to increased risk of death. In such cases, terminal illness diminishes the quality and the dignity of life, making a living more problematic. Death seems to be the only way through which terminally ill patients comes out of the unendurable situation (Irish Council for Bioethics, n.d.). Euthanasia can be defined within certain parameters. For instance, a terminally ill patient, despite being in an insufferable state and with minimal chances of recovery, may be unwilling to die. A physician may propose euthanasia, against the will of the patient, as the only treatment alternative. This is referred to as involuntary euthanasia. A terminally ill patient may also degenerate into vegetative state, thus unable to give consent on euthanasia. This is referred to as non-voluntary euthanasia and has faced stiff opposition, especially from religious-based organizations.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Is Euthanasia a Morally Wrong Choice for Terminal Patients? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As opposed to invo luntary euthanasia, a patient may be willing to end suffering through death and may thus request for assistance to end life. This is referred to as voluntary euthanasia and is supported by humanists and human rights activists. A physician may withhold or omit treatment due to its ineffectiveness (Zdenkowski, 1996). While Zdenkowski (1996) refers to this as passive euthanasia Irish Council for Bioethics (n.d.) asks whether omission of treatment amounts to euthanasia. The definitions above portray euthanasia as an appropriate and necessary alternative for the elimination of human suffering for terminally ill patients. However, these definitions fail to exhaustively capture the confines within which euthanasia is said to be morally permissible. Thus, its appropriateness and moral permissibility is an issue that has continued to not only elicit sharp reactions from various quarters but also generate difficult questions. For instance, whether a terminally ill patient has an exclusive rig ht to determine the manner and the time of death, whether euthanasia diminishes the value of human life or whether euthanasia undermines the quality of healthcare are some of the major questions not sufficiently addressed through the definitions above. Nevertheless, an attempt is made to address some of the shortcomings in the section that follows. Major viewpoints in support of euthanasia Terminal illnesses are mostly irreversible. They also involve insufferable pain which reduces the quality and the integrity of life. Dealing with terminal illnesses is a complicated matter due to issues beyond human ability. Nevertheless, there are some instances where assisting terminally ill patients seems to be not only appropriate but also morally permissible. This generates numerous viewpoints, as seen below. Patient’s rights and free will In liberal societies, it is assumed that every individual has the right to make decisions regarding life without undue influence. It is also assumed that individuals have the right to access necessary information that allows them to make informed choices for their own benefit in a way that does not affect other people (Buse, 2008).Advertising Looking for research paper on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This right also involves determining the direction of ones life, and whether an individual has the right to choose to die incase circumstances, such as terminal illness, demand so. Supporters of this viewpoint argue that a terminally ill patient has the right to choose death as a possible treatment for an insufferable and irreversible condition. As such, it is generally perceived as an act of immorality to force terminally and chronically ill patients to live against their wish (CNBC News, 2011). Additionally, such an act is considered as denial and violation of personal rights, freedoms and liberties (Irish Council for Bioethics, n.d.; Humphry, 1991). Proponents of these views argue that a terminally ill patient has the right to determine where, when and how to die. However, this viewpoint is strongly opposed by religious-based organizations on assumption that an individual’s right to life is determined by God. Since terminally ill patients lack the power to determine when t hey are born, they also lack the right to determine how and when they die (Irish Council for Bioethics, n.d.). Opponents also argue that allowing an individual the right to choose when and how to die devalues God, life and God’s Devine will (Johnstone, 2008; Bowie and Bowie, 2004). Nevertheless, as Gorsuch (2009) argues God is compassionate and would not subject anyone to prolonged suffering in the form of terminal illnesses. Thus, it is within the rights of a terminally ill patient to choose to die immediately rather than live an intolerably, without upsetting the Will of God. Humanistic genuine care and concern for patients’ happiness The thoughts illustrated above indicate that both the liberal and religious-based authorities value the dignity of human life. Similarly, humanists portray significant care and concern for human life, but from a different perspective. Humanists argue for the quality and the dignity of human life and the search for personal happiness as the absolute goal in life. If a condition, such as terminal illness lowers the quality of human life, then patients are within their right to seek any form of treatment that alleviates pain and suffering (Kuupellomà ¤ki, 2000). Humanistic beliefs suggest good quality life, the search for happiness and absolute fulfillment as the utmost goals in life. Most of the terminal illnesses are chronic in nature and result to extreme pain through which no medication can reverse or alleviate. Additionally, terminally ill patients gradually degenerate into a vegetative state. Humanists argue that in such a condition, a patient is not in a humanly dignified state and that euthanasia is not only most appropriate but also an act of mercy. Mercy killing, despite opposition from religious-based organizations, becomes morally permissible. Those inclined towards conservative views with regards to mercy killing propose palliative care as the most ethical form of healthcare for terminally ill patients. Humanists, on the other hand, argue that while palliative healthcare prolongs life amid extreme pain and suffering, it nevertheless fails lessen patients suffering (de Casterlà ©, Verpoort, De Bal and Gastmans, 2006). As such, despite the best palliative care practices, terminally patients remain in a humanly indignified state (Musgrave and Soudry, 2000). While humanists argue that euthanasia remains to be the only morally permissible solution, de Casterlà © et al. (2006) assert that physicians ought to approach euthanasia with â€Å"active openness† since terminally ill patients â€Å"request for euthanasia out of fear and ignorance†. While â€Å"active openness† is likely to offer the terminally ill patients some level of emotional relief and reassurance, it is only applicable to self-conscious patients and not those in vegetative state. Nevertheless, whether vegetative or self-conscious, euthanasia seems to be the only morally permissible act, if terminal illness significantly reduces the quality of life (Verpoort, Gastmans and de Casterlà ©, 2004). Utilitarianism view on the attainment of the highness happiness The assertions made above show genuine concern for the quality of human life. Nevertheless, the ideal definition of quality with reference to terminally ill patients differs significantly depending on underlying perspective. Similarly, utilitarian thinkers argue that euthanasia is a morally permissible and merciful act aimed at not only easing a patient’s suffering but also for the attainment of the highest possible happiness. The utilitarian view of quality is perceived from the intrinsic considerations to end human suffering instead of prolonging suffering (Kasule, n.d.). Utilitarianism assumes that there is no pain and suffering in death and as such, terminally ill patients ought to be helped to attain such a painless state, if living becomes unbearable and irreversible. Additionally, death ought to be achieved in highest possible happiness. Therefore, delivering euthanasia ought to be as painless as possible (Edwards and Graber, 1988). Utilitarian views presuppose that there is a minimum standard under which life is said to be worth living. Should terminal illness lower the quality of life below the minimum standard, personal happiness is jeopardized and therefore judgment ought to be made on whether living is necessary or not. Utilitarian thinkers argue that the judgment process is mostly subjective. As such, it is possible to euthanize undeserving patients or deny euthanasia to deserving ones. Nevertheless, utilitarian euthanasia seems appropriate where pain and suffering significantly deteriorates, is irreversible, and lowers the quality of life making living unbearable. Putting terminally ill patients under palliative care only leads to a slow, painful and indignified death. Since every person deserves to die in dignity and happiness, euthanasia is the only morally permissible act throug h which this is attained (Singer, 1993). Approaches and evidences for euthanasia To support the assertions made above, it is imperative to cite crucial evidence that validates the views made therein. Consequently, it is also imperative to enumerate a number of approaches made by the authors. Three major approaches seem to be overarching. Personal liberty and autonomy in making end of life decision, the role of healthcare professionals as well as the attainment of positive balance between suffering and personal happiness are the three overarching approaches adopted by the authors herein. Crucial evidence is derived from survey reports, real-life as well as hypothetical cases. Healthcare, personal liberty and autonomy at the end of life End of life is one of the most important periods in a person’s life. Matters involving end of life are critical and therefore, involvement of each individual in making decision regarding healthcare at the end of life is crucial (Buse, 2008). Mos t terminal illnesses involve insufferable pain that significantly lowers the quality of life. In humanistic view, such patients live and die in conditions not humanly dignified (Musgrave and Soudry, 2000). As such, request for euthanasia by patients in such conditions ought to be respected and granted (Kuupellomà ¤ki, 2000; Bowie and Bowie, 2004). Such conclusions have been arrived at based on varied evidence gathered form existing cases. For instance, the right and autonomy of terminally ill patients are highlighted through Sue Rodriguez, a Canadian woman suffering from Lou Gehrig’s disease, an extremely painful and irreversible condition. The doctors had agreed to her request for euthanasia, but The Canadian Justice System refused Miss Rodriguez the right to die and effectively prolonged her suffering, leading to a slow, painful death (CNBC News, 2011). In light of Miss Rodriguez’s case, questions linger on the applicability of personal liberty and autonomy for term inally ill patients lacking self-consciousness, such as Louis Repouille’s son. Described as ‘incurably imbecile’, Repouille’s son was said to be as good as dead. Singer (1993) asserts that such patients have the right to die in dignity and that doctors have an obligation to deliver euthanasia for such patients. While unconsciousness waives the right to life, assisting terminally ill patients in ending life does not amount to violation of personal liberty and autonomy (Singer, 1993). The role of healthcare professionals in the delivery of euthanasia Miss Rodriguez’s case exposes critical issues, such as the role of healthcare professionals in the delivery of euthanasia. A study conducted by de Casterlà © et al. (2006) in Belgium indicates that euthanasia is only ethical if healthcare professionals are actively involved in its delivery. de Casterlà © et al. (2006) study focuses on 12 healthcare givers and reveals that the role of healthcare profess ionals is not to limited to technical elements of euthanasia; it also involves offering professional and emotional support to patients and families. Additionally, healthcare professionals have an obligation to help terminally ill patients understand euthanasia and the underlying implications. This helps terminally ill patients and their relatives to obtain relief and assurance at the end of life (Verpoort, Gastmans and de Casterlà ©, 2004). Singer’s (1993) text further alludes to the active role that healthcare professionals ought to undertake in ensuring that euthanasia is delivered within professional and ethical boundaries. Singer (1993) cites George Zygmaniak example; Zygmaniak was completely paralyzed by a motor accident and as a result, his life became unbearably painful. Zygmaniak’s brother, upon request by Zygmaniak, smuggled a gun in the hospital and killed Zygmaniak. While this constitutes voluntary euthanasia, it was nevertheless conducted unethically since no professional healthcare provider was actively involved in euthanizing Zygmaniak. The principle of positive balance between suffering and personal happiness Humanist and utilitarian thinkers portray genuine concern for the welfare of the terminally ill. They acknowledge that the pursuit of personal happiness is the absolute goal in life. Since extreme pain significantly lowers the quality of life, the balance â€Å"between misery and suffering† seems relevance (Singer, 1993; Kasule, n.d.). The call for euthanasia is thus necessitated by condition in which suffering supersedes happiness (Edwards and Graber, 1988). In arriving at such conclusions, Singer (1993) cites several hypothetical situations, such a child suffering from spina bifida, a condition that affects the spinal cord, subsequently lowering nerve activity. In moderate cases, a child requires more than 40 surgeries to sustain life, while in extreme cases no medical intervention improves the quality of life. A mod erate case of spina bifida may not necessarily require euthanasia since the child may experience a high balance of happiness as compared to the level of suffering. On the other hand, extreme cases experience a higher level of suffering as compared to happiness and as such is deserving of euthanasia. The balance of happiness and suffering is also alluded to in Miss Rodriguez case; her condition involved extreme and irreversible pain that significantly reduced the level of personal happiness. Making end of life decisions, especially with regards to end of life healthcare is a personal prerogative. As such, in staking a claim for euthanasia defending the autonomy of a terminally ill patient in determining when, where and how to die is crucial. But it is also important to consider the balance between suffering and happiness and only allow euthanasia for those patients in insufferable and irreversibly painful states. To ensure that euthanasia is delivered within professional and ethical parameters, it is also important to enlist the help of healthcare professionals. This ensures that euthanasia is not only conducted ethically and professionally but delivered only to those patients for whom euthanasia is the only way to alleviate pain and suffering. Conclusion Euthanasia involves ending the life of innocent persons. Nevertheless, this does not necessarily make it unethical. Terminal illnesses involve extreme pain and suffering, which significantly lowers the quality of life. A terminally ill patient is thus justified to request for euthanasia, if living is cumbersome and insufferable. However, in granting the request for euthanasia, there is need to enlist the help of healthcare professionals, whose role extends beyond providing crucial information to offering professional as well as emotional support. Additionally, healthcare professionals ought to be involved in the delivery of euthanasia to ensure that the dignity of life is respected in the process. Furthermore, the involvement of healthcare professionals is vital in determining which patients deserve to be euthanized. This does not necessarily imply that all terminally ill patients deserve to be euthanatized. While patients consent is crucial, is imperative to consider several other factors such as the happiness of the patient, the quality of life, the chances of recovery and the method through which euthanasia is to be delivered. All these issues ought to be considered in determining the balance between happiness and suffering. Only in those cases where the scale of suffering significantly outweighs the scale of happiness qualify for euthanasia. Therefore, euthanasia is moral. Reference List Bowie, B. and Bowie, A. (2004). Ethical studies: euthanasia. London: Neslon Thornes Buse, A. (2008). Euthanasia: forms and their differences. Berlin: GRIN Verlag CNBC News. (2011). The Fight for the Right to Die. CNBC Canada. 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Human rights and euthanasia: an occasional paper of the human rights and equal opportunity. Retrieved from http://www.hreoc.gov.au/pdf/h uman_rights/euthanasia.pdf This research paper on Is Euthanasia a Morally Wrong Choice for Terminal Patients? was written and submitted by user Karis R. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.