Suicide and the State: The Ethics of Involuntary Hospitalization for Suicidal Patients

Authors

  • Catherine Elizabeth Bonn

Keywords:

ethics, suicide, hospitalization

Abstract

This essay explores the ethical issues surrounding the public policy of involuntarily hospitalizing patients believed to be in imminent danger of committing suicide.   In particular, the article explores whether there is a right to suicide, whether committing suicide can be completely voluntary, and whether the typical terms of involuntary hospitalization are an appropriate response to a patient expressing suicidal ideation.

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Published

2010-10-04

Issue

Section

Special Essay Section: Ethics and Public Policy