I still can't get over the arguments made over this case. But I think it is very important - because it helps define who we are, and what we believe. It is also important, because it helps show the limits placed on Executive and Legislative Branches of Government. George Bush may be the "most powerful man in the world", able to command armies and topple governments half a world away, but he doesn't have the authority to overturn the American Court System - and stop the death of woman who has committed no crime and hurt no one.
I've read that she's got no higher brain function, and therefore can't feel pain, or any emotion (for that matter) - so depriving her of fluids and starving her to death is considered humane. But frankly, any means of killing someone in such a condition, no matter how gruesome, could also then be considered humane - as she can't feel pain (they claim), and is not aware enough to feel any fear (they claim).
In fact, even arguing that she would or wouldn't want to live like that (in a persistant vegetative state) doesn't matter (at least to her, now) - she is supposed to be completely unaware of what's going on, Elvis has left the building.
This is really a fight about feelings. The feelings of Mr. Schiavo, the feelings of the Schindlers, and our own feelings (and beliefs). |
