Expert: Stuart Resnick - 5/29/2010

Question
Hi Stuart Resnick!

I'm currently doing an assignment on Buddhism and Bioethics.
Could you please provide me with your view on 'Euthanasia' and 'Abortion' (i.e. specifically from a Zen Buddhist perspective).

So just to elaborate, could you please state whether (or not) you support the abortion/euthanasia and why. (If you could further explain why you are against/for abortion/euthanasia by making links to the 5 (10) precepts, karma or various teachings of Zen Buddhism, that would be a great help :) )
Much Appreciated!!

Thank you so much! and Thanks for your time :)
-Wendy 

Answer
The teaching of Buddhism is to meet each moment with clarity and compassion. That means putting down I/my/me, and trying to help others. Whatever you do, you can examine: WHY do this? If your intention is only for yourself, then it will bring suffering. If your intention is to help others, then no problem.

There's no need to hold opinions about Euthanasia or Abortion or anything else. If, in your actual life, you find yourself in a situation where you must make a decision involving these things, then you should put aside your own opinions and desires, ask what action would best help other beings, and then act accordingly.