Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Just to clarify, the state didn't kill him.

They removed his life support, against the wishes of his parents and then prevented them from accepting help. He survived ~5 days without it.

While it's a sad story I agree, it's not the point. Giving the state the power to decide who lives and dies without a trial and conviction for a crime is something many of us had hoped was settled long ago.



Ok, let's try a nice straightforward story. A child is bitten by a dog that definitely has rabies (this can be established by autopsy). The child's parents refuse any treatment (vaccination). It is about a 99% chance that the child will die of rabies without the vaccination. Do you believe the state (or any other actor) should have any power to intervene?


EDIT: There was a trial, I regret simplifying this down to murder.




Consider applying for YC's Summer 2026 batch! Applications are open till May 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: