Explain why Kant would conclude that Bouvia’s repeated attempts at suicide would be wrong. Yes, Kant claims that suicide is wrong in both
Overview
In the Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals, Kant argues that it is wrong to commit suicide, and later in the Metaphysics of Morals he suggests that even donating non-vital organs or parts of one’s body, such as a tooth is immoral. Given this, it seems clear that Kant would find Elizabeth Bouvia’s repeated attempts at starvation wrong. Yet, one might argue that she should have been allowed to starve for utilitarian considerations. Not only did she endure a grave deal of unnecessary suffering, her medical care was quite costly. This expense was felt by everyone. Given this, one might wonder if Kant would be right about the case of Elizabeth Bouvia.
Note that submissions should be 1) double-spaced and 2) formatted according to MLA standards. This includes appropriately cited in-text citations, as well as complete bibliography.
For more information on writing argumentative essays, please carefully read the writing guide.
Instructions
1. Read: The Case of Elizabeth Bouvia in the Required Readings section for module 4.
2. Prompt: Is Kant right? Were Bouvia’s repeated attempts at starvation wrong?
In addressing this question, you must do the following:
(1) Provide a brief overview of the relevant aspects of the case. Don’t assume your reader is familiar with the story of Elizabeth Bouvia.
(2) Explain why Kant would conclude that Bouvia’s repeated attempts at suicide would be wrong. Yes, Kant claims that suicide is wrong in both works previously mentioned. However, it’s not enough to simply note that Kant thinks suicide is wrong. Instead, you must explain why he comes to this conclusion. Hence, your discussion should include an explanation of key concepts, ideas or principles like the categorical imperative, persons, reason, inclination, etc.
(3) Provide a rigorous evaluation of the Kantian argument for why Bouvia’s repeated attempts at starvation were wrong. Here you should consider an objection to the claim that Bouvia’s attempts at starvation were wrong. Then assess the strengths and weaknesses of the objection.
(4) Please refer to the paper writing guidelines for general requirements on writing philosophical essays. You need to cite all sources as you would in a standard philosophical essay using MLA formatting and citation guidelines. MLA Tool Kit .
Note that this assignment needs a proper thesis that answers the question of whether or not a Kantian analysis of the Bouvia case is correct.
(5) Your submission should be between 1000-1500 words, with a minimum of 900 words.
Answer preview for Explain why Kant would conclude that Bouvia’s repeated attempts at suicide would be wrong. Yes, Kant claims that suicide is wrong in both
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