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Atheism/euthanasia
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Question
when is life sacred? when does it stop becoming sacred or start beoming sacred? and if so does this affect your views on euthanasia, (taking away something special - life)
I don't believe anything is "sacred" in the traditional, literal sense. If we simply mean "worthy of respect" by the term, though, then life can be described as sacred.
If we respect life, it must be because of our ability to interact with it. If we are going to respect life, that respect must extend to allowing that which is alive make decisions about what to do with their life - including ending it, if that is their wish.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | gave me some good sources to look up | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Austin Cline
Expertise
I can address questions regarding atheism, agnosticism, skepticism, humanism, religious philosophy & history, and arguments both for and against theism. I am also familiar with many of the skeptical and atheist resources in print and on the internet.
Experience
I have been an atheist and a secular humanist for many years. I actively run a site about agnosticism & atheism and attempt to help people understand more about these topics. I have made extensive study of both philosophy and of a wide vareity of religions.
Organizations
I belong to the Freedom From Religion Foundation and the Council for Secular Humanism.
Publications
My writings appear every week on the Agnosticism/Atheism site
Education/Credentials
I have a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an MA from Princeton University. I have also studied in Germany and Switzerland.
Awards and Honors
Phi Beta Kappa and a Fulbright Scholar.
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