Philosophy
The Doctrine of Double Effect in End-of-Life Care
Quick fact
In end-of-life care, the doctrine of double effect allows a physician to administer opioids to relieve pain, even to the point of potentially shortening life, as long as the intent is relief—this principle is distinct from euthanasia, where hastening death is the explicit aim.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a doctor gives a dying patient a dose of morphine to relieve agony, knowing it will likely suppress breathing and hasten death. Is that murder, or compassionate care?