Course : Greek Philosophy and Applied Ethics

In ancient Greek thought, euthanasia was not explicitly defined, but related ideas emerged in philosophy and medicine. Hippocratic ethics, as seen in the Hippocratic Oath, opposed physicians aiding in death. However, Stoics endorsed voluntary death in cases of unbearable suffering, seeing it as a rational, dignified choice. Plato, in the Republic, suggested that those with incurable illnesses should not be artificially prolonged. Aristotle, however, condemned suicide as unethical. Greek tragedies and historical accounts also reflect varying views, portraying death as an escape from dishonor or pain, highlighting the nuanced and evolving perspectives on euthanasia in ancient Greece.