Summary
In both articles, Manuela Nunes Ferreira discusses euthanasia as the intentional decision to end a life in order to alleviate unbearable suffering, typically associated with terminal illness or debilitating condition. One of the texts distinguishes between active euthanasia – a direct action – and passive euthanasia, associated with the withdrawal of life-prolonging treatments. The author frames the debate in the tension between autonomy and the relief of suffering, on the one hand, and the protection of life and the ethical value attributed to it, on the other.
The author reports that she has always been against euthanasia, but that the suffering experienced by her mother during a progressive and irreversible illness led her to reconsider the issue of a dignified death. She describes the experience as painful and states that the medication could not alleviate all the suffering. Nevertheless, after this personal reflection, she maintains her opposition to euthanasia and advocates for solutions that respect the natural course of life, with palliative care and support for the sick person.
The articles raise questions about patient autonomy, pain relief, and the possibility of avoiding the prolongation of physical and emotional suffering. They also express concern that vulnerable individuals may feel pressured to choose euthanasia. In the second article, the author associates this concern with the quality of available care: she fears that the approval of euthanasia would reduce the attention given to palliative care and treatments aimed at alleviating suffering without hastening death.
The author acknowledges that euthanasia has been the subject of legislative initiatives in Portugal and mentions countries where there are legal frameworks, but she argues that any framework must contain strict safeguards. For her, a decision could only be considered truly autonomous if it were free from external pressure and if the person had access to high-quality palliative care. This is the argument she presents in the texts; it is not an updated description of the legislation.
The conclusion expresses a personal and ethical view: Manuela Nunes Ferreira believes that hope and the value of life should guide the response to extreme suffering. Instead of resorting to euthanasia, she proposes strengthening palliative care and support for the sick and their families. The two articles address the topic through general arguments and the author's personal experience, without presenting this experience as representative of all sick people.
Excerpts from publications
