Euthanasia and the Constitutional Concerns it raises

Type :

Presentation

Pages :

4 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

06/09/2008

Category :

Political science

Sub category :

Social sciences

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Summary :

Introduction
Euthanasia?The Controversy
1. Opposition to Euthanasia
2. Support for Euthanasia
The Constitution and Euthanasia
Conclusion

Abstract

The right to life continues to be a significant issue for public debate. Although this issue is one that has been most recently framed in the context of embryonic stem cell research, it is evident that this issue is also encapsulated in the debate over euthanasia or assisted suicide. While many opponents of this practice claim that euthanasia is a significant violation of the individual's right to life, proponents contend that euthanasia provides individuals with the empowerment to live a quality of life that the individual sees as fitting. Mixed deeply within this debate is the issue of religion and the implications that exist with respect to the morality of committing suicide.
Clearly, the issue of assisted suicide is one in which salient arguments have been made on both sides. However, when one looks closely at the specific issues involved in the process of euthanasia, it becomes evident that the right to die is a deeply personal issue that must be addressed by the individual, not society. Much like the decision to bear a child or the decision to follow a specific religion, the right to die is an action that is protected by the Constitution. As such, the practice of euthanasia should be made legal in the United States. In an effort to support this assertion, this investigation considers the controversy surrounding the issue of euthanasia and the constitutional challenges that have been raised in an effort to legalize this practice. Through a careful consideration of what has been written on this subject, it will be possible to demonstrate that euthanasia is like any other civil right and should be protected under the law.