Bi-weekly Round up: 12th December 2021
In this edition, we focus on the principle of informed consent. For something a little different this edition, we have selected three very interesting, but niche topics and consider how the issues of informed consent interplay in these areas.
Questions to consider whilst reading these: To what extent should someone be able to consent to a treatment/practice? Should respect for autonomy always trump all other considerations?
1. Does the government’s plan to allow ‘consensual’ conversion therapy undermine its proposed ban?
Should conversion therapy, including talking treatments, be banned even if a fully autonomous individual consents to the ‘treatment’? Is this a practice that you shouldn’t be allowed to consent to?
2. ‘Dr Death’ assisted dying campaigner defends suicide pod and plans to make blueprints available in handbook
With the creation of the first ‘suicide pod’ designed to de-medicalise the process of dying, the question is raised as to whether this is a step forward to promoting autonomy or a step backwards in glamorising death and undermining the principle of the sanctity of life?
Should individuals be allowed to take their life using a ‘suicide pod’?
3.Bulgaria removes informed consent form requirement for Covid-19 vaccination
No longer a requirement to sign an informed consent form for Covid-19 vaccinations. Is evidencing informed consent less of a concern when Covid-19 is concerned?