When discussing the term “assisted suicide,” it is important to understand what it actually means. Assisted suicide, also known as voluntary euthanasia, is when an individual voluntarily takes their life with the help or advice from another person. In this situation, the person providing aid or advice may be a healthcare professional, a friend, or a family member.
Assisted suicide is now legal in some parts of the world. In Canada, for instance, legislation – namely the Medical Assistance in Dying Act – was introduced in June 2016. This Act states that, with certain conditions, healthcare providers are legally able to provide assistance to those who are suffering painfully with a serious, incurable illness, and have made a voluntary request for death. In some U.S. states, such as Oregon, legislation has been passed to make assisted suicide legal in certain situations.
To be granted access to assisted suicide, a number of conditions must be met. In the case of Canada, the Medical Assistance in Dying Act states that in order to be eligible, a person must: be 18 years of age or over; be able to provide informed consent; have a grievous and irremediable medical condition; be in an advanced state of irrevocable decline; experience enduring, intolerable suffering; and be a Canadian citizen or resident.
The Pros and Cons of Assisted Suicide
Since the introduction of assisted suicide laws, robust debates have ensued about the pros and cons of allowing this practice. Supporters of assisted suicide argue that it is a compassionate option for those suffering from terminal illnesses. By providing them with the option of taking their life with dignity, and on their own terms, individuals are able to escape intolerable pain and suffering. Detractors, on the other hand, believe that allowing assisted suicide sends the wrong message – that life is not valuable even in its most vulnerable state.
At the end of the day, it is up to each individual to decide how they feel about assisted suicide. It is a contentious issue that requires a great deal of introspection and consideration, and a decision was not come to lightly.