1. 'Talking Points: Assisted Suicide', Vaughan Roberts
Another in the ‘Talking Points’ series, Vaughan Roberts’ short book provides a short, clear introduction to the issues involved in discussing Assisted Suicide; writing with compassion and his typical clarity into how people think, Vaughan surveys the key Biblical texts and draws out some foundational principles for a Christian worldview. Pastoral and readable, this is a great starting point for understanding the debate.
2. 'Matters of life and death', John Wyatt
This book by Dr John Wyatt, Emeritus Professor of Neonatal Paediatrics at University College London, explores a range of ethical dilemmas from a Christian perspective, including beginning and end of life issues.
A seminal Christian work in this area, John writes in detail about how medical professionals, churches and individuals can respond to these ethical challenges. You can also find more articles and talks on John's website.
3. 'Finishing well', Ian Knox
To think well about Assisted Suicide, we need to think more broadly as Christians about what it means to get older. What is a positive vision for old age? Knox’s book takes a reader back to the Bible to think through how we can make the most of retirement and be productive with the gifts, skills and time we have.
4. 'Love thy body', Nancy Pearcey
Nancy Pearcey writes powerfully on both abortion and euthanasia in one of the finest recent Christian surveys of topical issues impacted by the theology of the body. Unpicking different philosophical traditions, and rooted in an understanding of contemporary culture, Pearcey makes the case that - contrary to popular opinion - it is the Christian worldview which is the truly kind one, rather than its secular humanist counterparts.
5. 'On death', Tim Keller
The third in his set of three books on the big events of life, ‘On Death’ is vintage Tim Keller. After critiquing different worldviews, Keller puts forward a Christian vision of why death exists, what it means to die, and how it isn’t something which a Christian need fear.
6. 'Do you want to die today?', Fault Lines
Lots of people think that the introduction of Assisted Suicide would be a compassionate step, not realising the broader implications it has for society.
This shocking documentary examines the legalisation of Assisted Suicide in Canada, particularly following the story of 41-year-old Rosina, who has her death approved by doctors for fibromyalgia, whilst confessing to her friends and family that really she wants to die to escape from poverty and her feelings of loneliness.
7. 'Better off dead?', Liz Carr
A recent documentary from actor and disability rights activist Liz Carr, this BBC production amplifies voices from the disability community who are concerned about the potential introduction of assisted suicide. The title refers to the perception many who are disabled have about others’ attitudes towards them, with fears that they are seen as a drain on society and that they would be pressured to end their lives prematurely..
So powerful that it was even awarded a 5-star review from the Guardian, Carr meets people on both sides of the debate, including Labour peer Lord Falconer, currently trying to bring in legislation through the Lords, and disabled peer Baronness Jane Campbell, who had a ‘Do Not Resuscitate’ order placed on her for a routine illness without consent.
8. Care not Killing
Care not Killing is one of the leading groups campaigning against assisted suicide, bringing together disability and human rights groups, healthcare providers, and faith-based bodies. They particularly advocate for palliative care and against any weakening of legislation around assisted suicide, and frequently run events.
A network specifically for disabled people who oppose Assisted Suicide. All those involved either experience physical or learning difficulties, or mental health problems.
10. 'Finishing Line', CARE & John Wyatt
CARE partnered with John Wyatt and Keswick Ministries to produce this resource for study groups on the issue of assisted suicide and euthanasia from a Christian perspective.
It includes an audio-visual presentation and a printed study guide, with discussion questions and prayer points. The course covers what it means to be human, euthanasia and assisted suicide, medical and palliative care, and how to die well and faithfully.