The House of Earth: Fifty Religions' Views on Your Right to Die

The issue of ""good death,"" or euthanasia, is a social one that will not likely go away in our lifetime. Here, Hemlock Society president emeritus Larue compiles the thinking of more than 50 of the world's religions on this subject. He first illuminates modern dilemmas over how to determine the definition of death; probes the moral positions of the sanctity-of-life camp; and basically debunks the ""slippery slope"" arguments. He then proceeds to catalogue and interpret ancient writings, as well as contemporary thought, on euthanasia from an astonishing array of sources. Regrettably, his treatment of the various belief systems is uneven. While some venerable traditions such as Hinduism don't fair so well in Larue's hands, American mainline paths are represented with depth, and many of our narrowly casted sects are addressed in detail. Despite his obvious biases, however, Larue has crafted a readable, thoughtful work for physicians and spiritual leaders. (Feb.)