Suffering

The topic of suffering encompasses an enormous range of issues. In this discussion the focus will be is on two key sets of questions: the nature and definition of suffering and the nature of the responses to suffering. At its broadest, suffering is taken to be identical with any negative or “unpleasant” experience, but such a conception suffering gives rise to several problems. On a more nuanced account, suffering is tied to a disruption or potential disruption to the integrity of the person. The differences between these two accounts are themselves tied to differences in responses to suffering and in approaches to the relief of suffering. As it is central to any attempt to understand human being in the world, the topic of suffering is central within bioethics but also a challenge to it.