In Right to Fail, the PBS Frontline documentary series and ProPublica have teamed up to bring a harrowing story to light. The documentary follows the relocation of mentally ill populations on the outskirts of New York City, raising difficult moral questions regarding an individual’s right to make decisions about their own life, and the responsibility of the state towards its citizens.
The documentary provides an intimate look at how individuals with mental illness are treated in modern society, as well as how public policy affects them. It also raises difficult questions about whether or not it is humane to remove people from their homes and communities, simply because they may not be able to care for themselves adequately. Furthermore, it asks viewers if it is ethically responsible for governments to place vulnerable members of society in locations where they cannot receive the medical support that they need.
Overall, Right to Fail serves as a powerful reminder of both our humanity and our inhumanity. It poses several important questions about justice and morality that could be vital in forming public policy going forward. This thought-provoking documentary should not be missed; it will leave viewers with much food for thought concerning our collective responsibility towards those members of society who are most vulnerable.
