Euthanasia OCR A-Level Religious Studies Ethics Revision

This resource introduces euthanasia as a key applied ethical issue within the OCR A Level Religious Studies Ethics specification. It defines euthanasia as the intentional ending of life to relieve suffering and outlines the key distinctions required by OCR, including voluntary, non voluntary, and involuntary euthanasia, as well as active and passive euthanasia. These distinctions support students in developing precise understanding of the ethical issue.

The resource explores euthanasia through Natural Moral Law, as developed by Aquinas. It explains how the primary precept of preserving life supports the sanctity of life, the belief that human life has intrinsic value and should not be intentionally ended. Euthanasia is therefore considered morally wrong because it violates the natural purpose of preserving human life.

The resource also examines Situation Ethics, which focuses on agape, or selfless love, as the basis for moral decision making. It explains how euthanasia may be justified if it is the most loving and compassionate response to suffering, supporting a quality of life approach.

This resource develops students understanding of the debate between sanctity of life and quality of life, preparing them for analysis and evaluation in OCR Ethics examinations and exam practice.