Euthanasia: would elderly people from socioeconomic classes D/E perform it or allow it on their relatives? / Eutanásia: idosos de classes socioeconômicas D/E a fariam ou a permitiriam em membros de sua família?

ABSTRACT

75 opinions from elderly people of low socioeconomic classes living in a specific community were investigated, about whether they would allow euthanasia to be performed on family members. 77.3% wouldn't perform euthanasia. Regarding permission to a physician, the following responded with negatives 78.7% against the active form, 68% against the passive, and 62.7% against double effect. The contrary arguments were religious issues, belief in destiny, hope of healing, don't want to take responsibility and guilty conscience.

RESUMO

Foram investigadas as opiniões de 75 idosos de uma determinada comunidade, pertencentes a classes socioeconômicas baixas, sobre se permitiriam a eutanásia a seus familiares. Não a fariam, 77,3% deles. Quanto à permissão dada a médicos, responderam com negativas 78,7% na forma ativa; 68%, na passiva; e 62,7%, na de duplo efeito. Os argumentos contrários foram devidos a questões religiosas, acreditarem no destino, crerem na cura, não assumirem a responsabilidade, e o peso da própria consciência.