In order that the question of euthanasia can be properly dealt with, it is first necessary to define the words used. In ancient times euthanasia meant an “easy death” without severe suffering. Today one no longer thinks of this original meaning of the word, but rather of some involvement of medicine whereby the suffering of sickness or of the final agony are reduced, sometimes also with the danger of suppressing life prematurely. Ultimately, the word euthanasia is used in a more particular sense to mean "mercy killing," for the purpose of putting an end to extreme suffering, or having abnormal babies, the mentally ill or the incurably sick from the prolongation, perhaps for many years of a miserable life, which could impose too heavy a burden on their families or on society. It is, therefore, necessary to state clearly in what sense the word is used in the present document. By euthanasia is understood an action or an omission, which of itself or by intention causes death, in order that all suffering may in this way, be eliminated. Euthanasia's terms of reference, therefore, are to be found in the intention of the will and in the methods used. Human life is the basis of all goods, and is the necessary source and condition of every human activity and of all society. Most people regard life as something sacred and hold that no one may dispose of it at will, but believers see in life something greater, namely, a gift of God's love, which they are called upon to preserve and make fruitful. And it is this latter consideration that gives rise to the following consequences:1. No one can make an attempt on the life of an innocent person without opposing God's love for that person, without violating a fundamental right, and therefore without committing a crime of theUtmost gravity.2.Everyone has the duty to lead his or her life in accordance with God's plan. That life is entrusted to the individual as a good that must bear fru...
