Dax Cowart and the Refusal of Medical Treatment

Dax Cowart was severely injured in an explosion in the 1970s. Despite his injuries, he expressed a strong and consistent desire not to want medical treatment for his injuries an to be allowed to die. In this episode, Tyler and Devan explore the landmark bioethics care of Dax Cowart and its importance to current questions about medical decision-making, capacity to refuse medical treatment, and disability.

Links to Sources and other Interesting Stuff:

“Dax Cowert, Who Suffered for Patient Rights, Dies at 71” The New York Times, Obituary, May 15, 2019.

Documentary: “Dax Cowart — 40 years later”