Heather Draper

Anorexics are often force-fed in order to save their lives and permit them to recover from the emotional and psychological symptoms of their disorder. However, some anorexics repeatedly return to their pattern of self-starvation once their weight is stabilized. In the following viewpoint, Heather Draper, an instructor at the University of Birmingham, argues that the quality of life of some of these anorexics is abysmal, as they have lost hope of recovery and find repeated forced feedings unpleasant. Draper concludes that these patients should be allowed to refuse medical treatment even if death will result.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What point does the author make in citing the case of Samantha Kendall"

2. What principle was upheld in the case of Re C, as stated by the author"

3. What “parallel...