The Problem of Withholding the Artificial Life Extension in Current German Ecumenical Discourse

Grzegorz Chojnacki

Abstract

In the ecumenical discussion taking place in Germany on life in the terminal phase the unanimity in the main postulates referring to the enabling the dignity of death is to be noticed. The Catholic Church and the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) approve the possibility of setting up “living wills” (Patientenverfügung) which should refer to the wish to withhold the artificial life extension in specific circumstances and which cannot make the request for a direct euthanasia neither through active deprivation of life nor through withholding the application of the proportional means of therapy. The “living will” should constitute the act of human freedom not determined by any unacceptable premises or conditions as the conditions of acceptance to the nursing home or residential medical care facility.

Keywords:

artificial life extension, ecumenical discourse, Catholic Church, Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD)