Background
Across the British Isles there is ongoing debate on whether assisted dying ought to be legalised, and if so, how it would operate. Understandably, this is an emotive and ethically challenging issue.
What is the 'Ethics Café'?
The ‘Ethics Café’ is a friendly, inclusive space where we seek to understand this issue together. Over freshly brewed tea and coffee you are invited to partner with us as we explore the ethical puzzle of assisted dying.
The session is not about agreeing on everything, rather it is a time of reflection with openness to truly listening to the experiences and understandings of others. We hope that those attending will benefit from examining the issues from new perspectives and reflecting on their own view.
Whilst the session does not have a set series of questions we will explore, some aspects we may consider:
· What is assisted dying?
· Who has a stake in the issue?
· What worries or concerns can we identify?
· What positives or gains can we identify?
· Should healthcare professionals be able to opt out of involvement?
Session details
The session will have limited capacity, with most of the session being spent in small group dialogue with approximately 6-8 others. In these groups you will have opportunity to ask questions, listen to others and share your views, whilst being supported by a facilitator and the session leader.
To make the session a safe and fruitful place, we will all agree to adhere to some ground rules. Above all we ask that you come open to listen carefully, think deeply and share respectfully.
The 'Ethics Café is lead by Isaac Moore, a Pharmacist & PhD researcher in Bioethics and Pharmacy Law at the University of Strathclyde Law School.
Please note: this session runs twice on 21st October 2025 (14:30 – 16:00 and 16:30 – 18:00) please only register for one session.
More about the Festival of Social Science
This session is part of the Festival of Social Science by the ESRC. The festival is an opportunity for anyone to explore topics relating to social science, from health and wellbeing to crime, equality, education and identity, through events run by researchers from UK universities. For further information, and to learn more about events during the 2025 Festival, please visit: https://festivalofsocialscience.com
