Expert: Justin Choo - 5/31/2010

Question
Hello I am doing a research assignment on abortion and euthanasia, and was wondering if you could answer a few questions.

1. What is your view on abortion, do you believe it is wrong?
2. What is your view on euthanasia, do you believe it is wrong?
3. Do you think both abortion and euthanasia are big issues within the Buddhist community?
4. Are there any teachings that condemn or condone either acts?
5. Are there any circumstances where abortion or euthanasia is the right choice?

Thankyou :)

Answer
Hi Amie,

It is always very easy to take a hard stand on issues when they do not directly affecting us.  Only when we are personally confronted with the difficult choice, do we realize that life is not so simple and clear cut.  In every case we need to weigh the consequences and the unique circumstances surrounding it.  

Of course, Buddhism has clear opinions on these issues as well.  But if can use our little wisdom that we have, then circumstances do play a big part in the decision making process.  I have just answered a question on "Buddhism and transgender surgery" which I quote here:

"Buddhism is about living a life of contentment and inner peace.  With regards to many so-called sensitive or controversial issues, Buddhism has no problem with them.  The "acid test" for such matters centres around 3 questions:

1. Does the action hurt oneself?
2. Does the action hurt others?
3. Is the action beneficial?

From the above questions, one will be able to honestly decide on the appropriate action."


Be that as it may; here are the Buddhist perspective for your questions:

1. What is your view on abortion, do you believe it is wrong?
Abortion is the purposeful termination of the process of life formation.  In Buddhism, a life consists of the physical form and the consciousness.  Without this consciousness, there is no real life.  The question is at which stage of the life-formation process does consciousness take root?  In the overall view, abortion is regarded as termination of life.  As such it is an unwholesome act.

2. What is your view on euthanasia, do you believe it is wrong?
Euthanasia per se is also a volitional or deliberate act of terminating a life.  It is also an unwholesome action.

3. Do you think both abortion and euthanasia are big issues within the Buddhist community?
Nothing is big issue in Buddhism.  Buddhists are taught to use their human intelligence and common sense to make calculated judgement.  I don't use the words "right" and "wrong" but "wholesome" and "unwholesome."  

4. Are there any teachings that condemn or condone either acts?
Buddhist teachings never condemn.  The teachings point out what is wholesome and what is unwholesome; and it is up to the individual to decide. Buddhists are advised to avoid such actions; abortion and euthanasia.

5. Are there any circumstances where abortion or euthanasia is the right choice?
In strict scriptural interpretation, these actions are definitely unwholesome for whatever reasons.


Hope this helps.

Take care.

Justin Choo