Cogito !

If Aristotle were to be presented with the dilemma that troubles all of America today, I believe he would without hesitation, opt to restore Terri Schiavo’s feeding tube. He always adhered unswervingly to his tenet that existence and life are inviolable. But if Rene Descartes were faced with the same question, I am equally certain that the father of "modern" philosophy, would take a diametrically opposed position. With one glance at Terri's flat-lined electro-encephalogram, the author of cogito, ergo sum (I think, therefore I am) would instantly declare, "This woman has ceased to be alive!" To feed her or not to feed her, he would have regarded as pointless rhetoric.

However, it is important to note that the 180 degree divergence between these two positions is a purely philosophical one. Neither of these venerable philosophers would attach an iota of moral or religious value to their respective views. But, sadly, that does not appear to be the case with us in America today. We are disputing this subject with much more moral and religious fervor than philosophical understanding. We are too prone to believe that we are standing on higher and purer ground than those who oppose us. Nevertheless, we are all moving inexorably into the next act of this tragedy. Within days, Terri will expire and not long afterwards, each of us will retreat into the false security of our individual and collective moral sanctuaries.

Addendum: Isn't it odd that this is happening during this year's Easter season, that hallowed period when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, whose human life was terminated by Roman cucifixion?