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book1993

Life's Dominion

Disciplines:
jurisprudence/philosophy of law
ethics

Summary

Dworkin's philosophical treatment of abortion and euthanasia — arguing that both sides in both debates are really arguing about the 'sanctity of life' (an intrinsic value) rather than about rights.

Core Contribution

The sanctity of life: both pro-choice and pro-life positions appeal to the intrinsic value of life — they differ in how that value is understood and weighed. Reframes the abortion debate away from the question of fetal personhood. Euthanasia: a person's own sense of what gives their life meaning should guide end-of-life decisions. Constitutional argument: the establishment clause limits how state can enforce one version of the sacred.

Historical Influences

John Rawls

Intellectual Lineage

Philosophy of Law Applied Ethics

Allied Works

Taking Rights Seriously Law's Empire Justice for Hedgehogs

Contemporaries & Peers

A Theory of Justice Practical Ethics

Minds Influenced

Constitutional Law Bioethics

Intellectual Posterity

Abortion Jurisprudence

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Life's Dominion

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