In 1998 Dr. Jack Kevorkian assisted in the suicide of Thomas…

In 1998 Dr. Jack Kevorkian assisted in the suicide of Thomas Youk, a patient suffering from advanced Lou Gehrig’s disease who had decided that death was preferable to living with the pain caused by the illness.  Kevorkian gave Youk a lethal injection of drugs, and the incident was taped and broadcast on the television program 60 Minutes.  First, analyze this case from the point of view of the ethical theory of (Bentham-style) utilitarianism. As a first step, define what utilitarianism is.  Then, explain whether or not Kevorkian’s act of lethal injection was morally permissible according to this theory. Second, analyze the case using the principle of double effect. Again, you’ll need to begin by defining what the principle of double effect is. Was Kevorkian’s act permissible according to this principle—why or why not?

INSTRUCTIONS: This is meant to simulate your exam experience…

INSTRUCTIONS: This is meant to simulate your exam experience. I do not expect you to know all information covered in this diagnostic test. IT IS A COMPLETION GRADE. Do your best and practice following the exam procedures covered in boot camp and the syllabus. In actual exams, proctors may “pop-in” to ask you to correct certain conditions. Since this is a simulation, you will not experience it on this exercise.