Dear Editor
‘The delusion of autonomy and “my choice” condemns a multitude of others who cannot defend themselves to immolate themselves for the predominance of autonomy.’
What a very strange position to adopt, or view to promote, especially from a psychiatrist. Thankfully the relegation of autonomy to such a diseased state does not appear to be mirrored in modern mental health care law or policy.
Followers of the assisted dying coverage in the BMJ will have no doubts as to which side of the fence Dr Breen occupies. And he and other opponents have every right to hold and express their views, as do supporters and neutrals. However, when the expressed views become more desperate, strident, and in some ways offensive, then surely the right thing to do is at least declare overtly obvious conflicts of interest.
It appears that any opposition to giving individuals more empowering personal choice must by its very nature seek to restrict autonomy. It is very much the ‘we know better’ attitude. Such paternalistic and patronising attitudes in medicine are thankfully in decline.
It is noteworthy that in Dr Breen’s own country, Ireland, the Health Information And Quality Authority laud autonomy as one of the five core human rights principles. The values Dr Breen cites are not mentioned individually, although that is not to say that they are not important.
Autonomy, together the other four core principles stated, fairness, respect, equality and dignity, would appear (in my view at least) to support granting individuals lawful choice in this very sensitive matter.
https://www.hiqa.ie/sites/default/files/2017-01/Supporting-Peoples-Auton…
https://www.hiqa.ie/sites/default/files/2017-01/Autonomy-Service-User-Le…
Re: Assisted dying bill: Two doctors would need to approve action