Should Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide Be Legalized?
A doctor's active involvement in assisting an individual take their own life has been a controversial topic since the 1900's. Dr. Jack Kevorkian, an American physician, was a strong advocate for euthanasia and physician assisted suicide (PAS). Kevorkian assisted about 130 people commit suicide during the 1900's. Even though Kevorkian argued that his assistance in these suicides served to end the suffering of the individuals, he was called to trial multiple times. In 1999, Kevorkian was convicted for second-degree murder after he had injected a patient with lethal drugs. Kevorkian was sentenced to 10-25 years in prison but was released after 8 years on parole due to good behavior and his promise that he would no longer assist in any more suicides. Kevorkian's actions began the discussion of legalizing assisted suicide and the reappearance of debates on the topic of euthanasia and PAS.
Fieger told reporters that Kevorkian always fought for the rights of his patients and thought it was every physician's duty to help dying patients who are suffering.
"He was a physician who had an acute sense of compassion and respect for the dignity of his patients. He simply felt that it was the duty of every physician to alleviate, to overcome the patient’s suffering," said Fieger
- Geoffry Nels Fieger 2011
"He was a physician who had an acute sense of compassion and respect for the dignity of his patients. He simply felt that it was the duty of every physician to alleviate, to overcome the patient’s suffering," said Fieger
- Geoffry Nels Fieger 2011
" The issue is this: Did Thomas Youk have a choice to end his agony, and by helping him achieve that aim, did I commit murder, first or second degree, or manslaughter? That's the issue which you've got to decide."
- Dr. Jack Kevorkian March 26, 1999
- Dr. Jack Kevorkian March 26, 1999
Created by: Namuka Tur
Senior Divison Individual Website
Senior Divison Individual Website