A right to die for prisoners?
International Journal of Prisoner Health
ISSN: 1744-9200
Article publication date: 18 September 2019
Issue publication date: 10 February 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore whether, although the state has a duty to protect prisoners, there should nevertheless be a right for prisoners to decide when and how they die.
Design/methodology/approach
Utilising a utopian thought experiment, the paper covers a series of interrelated issues: the aims of punishment, the functions of prisons, the rights of prisoners and the responsibilities of the state towards inmates. While the paper takes a European focus, it is of interest to a global audience, as the philosophical ideas raised are universally applicable.
Findings
As the right to die advances in society, so should it advance for prisoners. Once assisted dying has been legalised, it should also be available for dying prisoners.
Originality/value
The question has so far not been analysed in depth. With an ageing prison population, however, it is vital that we start engaging with the problems posed by an ageing and dying prison population.
Keywords
Citation
Reichstein, A. (2020), "A right to die for prisoners?", International Journal of Prisoner Health, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 56-66. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPH-07-2019-0036
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited