Euthanasia, as it pertains to human
beings, is a topic that is widely debated and highly controversial. There are
myriad arguments that support the use of euthanasia, promoting its use as a way
to eliminate pain and suffering among those who cannot find a relief any other
way. The arguments against euthanasia center on the struggle to clearly define
terms associated with euthanasia, such as what it means to be “terminally ill”
(Smith, 2007). There are other arguments against euthanasia that convey a general
distrust for the healthcare system in the United States. Activists against
the practice of euthanasia fear that the legalization of euthanasia would lead
to an increase in its practice due to the desire healthcare companies have to
save money.
Before
determining whether or not euthanasia should be allowed within the United States,
it is first important to understand what defines euthanasia. The term
“euthanasia” means to intentionally cause the death of another human being for
the benefit, or alleged benefit, of the human being who is to be euthanized.
Euthanasia, when used in reference to human beings, is often associated with
the phrase “assisted suicide” and is sometimes confusing in that many people
assume that the person who is being euthanized has given consent – either
literally or allegedly – for actions to be taken resulting in their demise. On
the other hand, sometimes the term is associated with actions taken when a
person is placed on life support in an effort to force a person’s body to comply
with the demands of daily living long after the person’s brain is no longer
active.
