Abstract

Assisted suicide, and indeed suicide in general, has long been a controversial issue, and an act toward which society's attitudes have changed greatly over the years. Through the use of relevant moral theories and principles I intend to show that assisted suicide can be proven to be morally acceptable. My analysis begins with a clarification of terminology surrounding the debate on assisted suicide. I continue to a consideration of the historical views of suicide and the development of the legal framework surrounding assisted dying. My theoretical analysis begins by considering assisted suicide from the perspective of several ethical theories. Kantian Ethics provide insight into universality and respect for persons, Utilitarianism illuminates the moral implications of possible consequences, and the Ethics of Care considers the special relationships of healthcare pertinent to the debate, as well as the emotions of the patient. The use of ethical principles furthers the debate. Beneficence and non-maleficence consider the relative benefit and harm of death in the context of end-of-life care, respect for autonomy considers whether assisted suicide is rationally voluntary, and justice considers matters of equal access. Before concluding with a recap of the analysis and my own views on assisted suicide, I will consider the role of religion in the debate, as well as the slippery slope argument which is often used against assisted suicide.