Euthanasia

Yes, because everyone should have the right to die with dignity.

Yes, with careful regulation. I really think it should be on a case-by-case basis. Outright legalising it would have massive implications

If it's alright, could you tell me what kind of implications you think it could have? Thanks for helping me out!

Hi Guys,

I am currently conducting research regarding euthanasia for my EPQ and I have a few questions. It would be great if you could help me by answering these.

Do you think euthanasia should be legalised? Why?

Thank you!!

I believe I should have the right, while in sound mind, to predetermine my own death in the event of certain circumstances befalling me. I should be able to write a document of binding instruction to my family and medical advisers that tell them to kill me if I fall into an irreversible coma, suffer injuries that remove my capacity to interact and enjoy life, or suffer incapacitating dementia.

My Parkinsons-suffering brother-in-law recently died after spending six months in a coma-like condition. He spent the last months of his life unable to sit up, completely incontinent, incoherent, unable to interact. I do not wish to suffer that, and my wishes, freely expressed while still mentally capable, should be binding.

Like most people who pitch into this subject without much prior thought, you conflate euthanasia with assisted suicide.

Euthanasia is the killing of the sick, like puitting down a pet, regardless of the wishes of the victim. This is, and should remain, illegal.

Assisted suicide is helping someone to die at their own request. This should be legal.

I am sure you can already sign a document incase of an emergency and lack of capacity specifiying you do not wish to have certain treatments (such as life prolonging/emergency) no? Sorry if I am incorrect. I completely agree with your point though

You can use a lasting power of attorney to give your relatives the power to make medical decisions for you when you do not have mental capacity. For instance, they can decide whether (while you are unconscious after an accident or seizure) to perform an operation or administer drugs, or whether to continue long-term treatment if you are in a coma.

That does not extend, currently, to being able to sanction actual killing, even if you have stated that that is what you would wish. neither are they permitted to assist you, still compos mentis, to commit suicide in any way, whether by supplying drugs and materials or helping you to get somewhere that allows it. This should change.

Euthanasia can be at someone's own request as well. There are different types which include voluntary and involuntary euthanasia. Voluntary euthanasia is when the person can have the capacity to give their consent to die. Does this change your opinion?

Can be. Is not necessarily. You need to be clear..

I think my opinion must be abundantly clear if you read my posts.

You should check out the Dutch system! It's partially legalised here and it seems to work rather well. Good luck!