To Be Or Not To Be

by William V. Rauscher

More than 30,000 people (many of them teenagers) commit suicide in the United States each year, while an estimated ten times as many attempt it, leaving family and friends at a loss for what to say, or do. William Rauscher believes the time has come for all of us to look long and hard at an issue that, as A. Alvarez wrote, “has permeated Western culture like a dye that cannot be washed out” – for the question of suicide affects people from all walks of life, and is more complicated today than ever before. To Be Or Not To Be is dedicated to the prevention of and it speaks to those who contemplate taking their own lives, as well as to the parents, teachers, doctors, clergy, counselors, and friends of individuals troubled by doubts about life’s worth. William Rauscher provides a well-balanced look first at the arguments in favor of suicide, arguments bolstered in recent years by the “right-to-death” movements, and others who ask, “Is life always and under all conditions better than death?” He then goes on to refute these arguments, thoughtfully drawing on religion, psychology and most important, his extensive experience as a priest and counselor to individuals and families in moments of crisis. Numerous case studies throughout support Rauscher’s position that, finally, suicide is not the answer, despite the “logical” arguments that can be raised in its favor. Sensitive and mature, To Be Or Not To Be is a rational, readable guide that gives useful and inspiring counsel on one of the most disturbing problems facing us today.

140 pages, Paperback

First published August 8, 2000