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Published in: Journal of Bioethical Inquiry 3/2023

Open Access 28-06-2023 | Brain Death | Critical Perspectives

Abortion, Brain Death, and Coercion

Author: Michael Nair-Collins

Published in: Journal of Bioethical Inquiry | Issue 3/2023

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Abstract

A “universalist” policy on brain death holds that brain death is death, and neurologic criteria for death determination are rightly applied to all, without exemptions or opt outs. This essay argues that advocates of a universalist brain death policy defend the same sort of coercive control of end-of-life decision-making as “pro-life” advocates seek to achieve for reproductive decision-making, and both are grounded in an illiberal political philosophy. Those who recognize the serious flaws of this kind of public policy with respect to abortion must apply the same logic to brain death.
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Metadata
Title
Abortion, Brain Death, and Coercion
Author
Michael Nair-Collins
Publication date
28-06-2023
Publisher
Springer Nature Singapore
Keyword
Brain Death
Published in
Journal of Bioethical Inquiry / Issue 3/2023
Print ISSN: 1176-7529
Electronic ISSN: 1872-4353
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11673-023-10268-1

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