Buddhism on Euthanasia Highlight the Buddhist bits “I say to you, that Buddhism follows the ten commandments and the fact that, according to the principle of ahimsa, we should not harm any living thing. This makes Euthanasia very difficult. But would it harm them more to leave them in suffering? All life is suffering, Buddhists want to reduce and eliminate suffering. This is the law of Allah as written in the Upanishads. The right intention is important with Euthanasia and above all it is down to the individual to reflect and consider which action will most positively impact their karma. And the COD rating.” Maybe write your own LO s.

Learning Objectives and Homework To remind ourselves of key Buddhist teachings. To evaluate how these might apply to Euthanasia. To explore what a Buddhist might do in certain circumstances.

Activity Watch video. Use it, the notes from abortion and the starter to bullet point the relevant Buddhist teachings. http://vimeo.com/17691369 Class discussion Extension – see textbook for details Hand out sheet during video

Government of Buddhisia Task 1) In your groups… 2) Now, your are a panel of experts who are going to advise the new government of Buddhisia on what their stance on Euthanasia should be. You will advise them from different viewpoints each time. a) use your gut feeling on Euthanasia to advise them. b) use some key facts to inform them about Euthanasia. c) tell them why Buddhisia might support Euthanasia. d) tell them why Buddhisia might disagree with Euthanasia