ABSTRACT
The question as to whether the suicide clause, which almost invariably occurs in a life policy, should be maintained, has recently been reopened for discussion. The discussion arose from the circumstance that an assurance company has issued a free suicide policy, that is, a policy in which the risk of suicide is covered by an extra £1 per mille. In these days of competition and advertisements, assurance offices, like other kinds of businesses, are on the look out for means of increasing their connection, but we regret that any office should take a step which is contrary to public morality, and which tends to invalidate the “canon ‘gainst self-slaughter.” 1 Holding the views that “this life’s a fort committed to my trust, which I must not yield up till it be forced,” 2 we are of opinion that anything which diminishes the safeguards against suicide is greatly to be deprecated. Now, there cannot be a more powerful restraining cause than the consciousness that those dependent on the would-be suicide would suffer from the loss of the bread winner. It can readily be imagined that a proud, sensititive spirit, goaded on by real or apparent wrongs, would be prepared to lay down his life could he only feel sure that those dear to him would be provided for. To such a man a life policy without any suicide clause may come as the very suggestion of the Evil One, and lead to the irrevocable step being taken. /
