Daniel Callcut

Designer Euthanasia

Thanks Jan Sand and Shawn B for the thoughtful comments. I would say, to Shawn B in particular, that it’s not intended satirically though I was aware that it could be read this way. It is an exploration of a line of thought and, as Shawn says, a kind of thought experiment. The question is: given the libertarian ethos behind many contemporary cultures, why shouldn’t chosen death be allowed? I am drawn to the idea that we should have this legal freedom much as I also fear (as the comments highlight) some of the possible consequences. If it’s an argument that turns people against libertarianism more generally, that’s interesting too. Thanks again for engaging with the essay.

This is beautiful, so full of hope and the instinct to live. Is it always wise to try to outrun the black dog, even if that feels necessary? Sometimes depression is a message-carrier that, hard as it is, has to be listened to and welcomed in.

But, in Flynn’s voice, and in the film, there’s no suggestion of shallow evasion of sorrow. It’s just that here the black dog is going to take you down unless you head towards life.