Jana is thinking about committing suicide. When she discusses her feelings with one of her friends, she is told that suicide is wrong because people’s lives are loaned to them and they have a responsibility to stay alive and live well. This view is based on which argument? A. Domino B. Religious C. Justice D. Freedom
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: B. Religious
Explanation:
The argument that people’s lives are loaned to them and they have a responsibility to stay alive and live well is a common religious viewpoint regarding suicide. Many religious traditions teach that life is a sacred gift from a higher power—often God—and that individuals do not truly own their lives but are merely stewards or caretakers of this gift. Therefore, ending one’s own life is seen as morally wrong because it violates the responsibility entrusted by the divine.
Why this is the religious argument:
- Life as a divine gift: Many religions hold that life is given by God or a higher spiritual entity. It is not something humans can claim full ownership of but rather something to be respected and preserved.
- Moral responsibility: Because life is loaned, people have a duty to care for their lives, live morally, and avoid actions like suicide that would prematurely end that gift.
- Sanctity of life: Religious teachings often emphasize the sanctity (sacredness) of life, prohibiting intentional killing of oneself or others.
- Common in many faiths: This view is seen in Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and other religions, though specific teachings vary.
Why the other options don’t fit as well:
- A. Domino: The domino argument relates to the idea that allowing one action will lead to a slippery slope of negative consequences. This is more about cause and effect, not about responsibility based on life being loaned.
- C. Justice: Justice arguments focus on fairness, rights, or lawfulness, not on life being a loan from a higher power.
- D. Freedom: Freedom arguments typically emphasize individual autonomy and the right to make choices about one’s life, including the right to die. This is often the opposite of the religious argument.
In summary, the idea that life is “loaned” and that people have a moral duty to preserve it comes directly from religious or spiritual ethical frameworks, making B. Religious the correct choice.