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Those left behind: Euthanasia, suicide and other regarding preferences

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  • David A Savage

Abstract

This paper examines the rationality of other regarding preferences on end-of-life decisions such as euthanasia and suicide , by extending the discounted future utility model. The discussion shows that individuals with other regarding preferences may act upon choices contrary to their ex-ante preferences, such that they are choosing to remain alive rather than opting for euthanasia or suicide. The policy extension is that individuals with close friends and/or family are less likely to take their own life, but can also prolong their own suffering because of the same attachments.

Suggested Citation

  • David A Savage, 2016. "Those left behind: Euthanasia, suicide and other regarding preferences," Rationality and Society, , vol. 28(4), pages 439-452, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ratsoc:v:28:y:2016:i:4:p:439-452
    DOI: 10.1177/1043463116658871
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    2. Andrew Greenland & Damon Proulx & David A Savage, 2020. "Dying for the cause: The rationality of martyrs, suicide bombers and self-immolators," Rationality and Society, , vol. 32(1), pages 93-115, February.
    3. Damon Proulx & David A. Savage, 2020. "What Determines End-of-Life Attitudes? Revisiting the Dutch Experience," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 152(3), pages 1085-1125, December.

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