Year: 1981 Source: New York: Academic Press Inc., 1981. pp.139-146 SIEC No: 19900677

This chapter discusses society’s effects on suicide. The author suggests religion discourages suicide by making it an improper action & by giving an individual a purpose for life. Despite this, suicide still occurs, suggesting that social/ethical teachings are only secondary influences. The ethics of suicide are also discussed. Western society seems to assume that suicide is “negative”; however, there is evidence that some suicide in a community is normal. Evolutionary ethics are also explored.