The Axiom Of Responsibility
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Taking Responsibility
For Themselves And Their Children

We finally know the cause of Michael Jackson's death: "According to court documents released Monday, Dr. Lakshmanan Sathyavagiswaran, the chief medical examiner-coroner for Los Angeles County, concluded Jackson died of an overdose of propofol," "a powerful anesthetic." ("Sleepless Night Preceded Jackson's Death") Even though Dr. Sathyavagiswaran's conclusion confirms what was commonly suspected, for countless fans and admirers, the finality of this news is quite sad.

The propofol, along with doses of Valium, "the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam (known by its brand name, Ativan) and midazolam (known as Versed)" where all administered to Jackson by his personal physician, cardiologist Dr. Conrad Murray, within his final 12 hours. In addition, it seems that Murray waited for a questionable period of time before calling 911 after he noticed Jackson had stopped breathing, and although no criminal charges have yet been filed, many speculate that Murray will soon be arrested for his role in Jackson's death.

Whether or not Murray's claims are true that "the singer even called [propofol] his 'milk' because of its milky appearance" and on the night of his death, "Jackson was repeatedly asking -- even demanding -- that Murray give him more propofol to help him sleep," Murray is still responsible for his actions: As the medical professional who took the Hippocratic Oath, he obviously knew the dangers of what he was doing and should face the consequences.

Nevertheless, it is truly Michael Jackson who is ultimately responsible for his own death. According to Magna Sententia, we all must take responsibility for our actions and our health. This doesn't mean that we're problem-free; rather, it means that when we do find ourselves engaging in unhealthy behavior, we take action and get the help we need to overcome our problems. No one is perfect, but there is hope for everyone who is willing to change.

Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of Magna Sententia
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society

[For more on Michael Jackson, please see "Michael Jackson Was Many Things, But A 'Good Father'?"]