The Terry Schiavo case generated enormous controversy at the highest religious and governmental levels.

The Terry Schiavo case generated enormous controversy at the highest religious and governmental levels. Whether Ms. Schiavo gave clear oral indication of her desire for care should she lose her neocortical capacity remains contested, along with conflicting testimony on the degree of damage to her brain. Subsequent autopsy of Ms. Schiavo’s brain did indicate profound and irreversible neurological deterioration even though brain stem function continued.

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If it had been possible to conclusively demonstrate, prior to the autopsy, that no higher brain function was possible for Ms. Schiavo, would that have been sufficient ethical grounds for discontinuing artificial feeding and hydration? Explain your answer.

What is the status and significance of an individual who has lost all brain function except for the brain stem?

In the case of Terry Schiavo, what significance or meaning do you see in her continued existence for 15 years?

When did she cease to be a person? Explain your answer.