Masonic Philosophical Society - Los Angeles Study Center

November's topic will be conducted by Bro. Gabriela Menendez as he asks the question, "Should it be a Personal Choice?"

Synopsis:
A fundamental precept of Freemasonry is the immortality of the soul. As such, Freemasonry recognizes that earthly existence is not the end. However, it does not speak to the manner of the end of earthly existence. Few questions reveal the tension between compassion and protection as clearly as decisions at the end of life. Modern medicine can relieve suffering and restore life, but it can also sustain biological functions after treatment no longer offers the recovery a patient values. For some, helping a terminally ill person control the manner and timing of death is an act of mercy and respect. For others, intentionally hastening death crosses a moral boundary and exposes vulnerable people to pressure, error, discrimination, and financial interests.

This discussion does not begin with the assumption that continued life is always the greatest good, or that death is always the compassionate answer. It asks instead whether a decision to hasten or permit death can be genuinely free, informed, just, and protected from the interests of others.

Mission Statement:
The Masonic Philosophical Society embraces the concept of learning, not for school, but for life, and believes that all men, who seek it, deserve access to continued education. We further embrace the concept of a community environment where ideas can be shared and debated in an open forum. From the seven liberal arts to the arcane, we seek to gain and share the knowledge that is the legacy of mankind.