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Euthanasia In The United States Essay

593 Words3 Pages

This project has conferred an extremely controversial and relevant topic. Euthanasia is illegal throughout all of the United States; however, physician assisted suicide is legal in Oregon, Washington, Vermont, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., and Montana. In addition, there are many benefits and drawbacks of legalizing euthanasia in the United States. Some advantages, including allowing a patient to die with dignity and granting a patient a pleasant death. One disadvantage is the possible abuse of euthanasia by physicians, since euthanasia gives a lot of power to doctors. Another disadvantage is the conflict it causes because of religious beliefs. According to some religions, euthanasia and assisted suicide directly clash with their beliefs. …show more content…

However, now, there is more insight on the topic and it can be understood more thoroughly and clearly; therefore, after lots of research and many discussions, the conclusion is that euthanasia should not be legal in the United States, whereas physician assisted suicide should be. Currently euthanasia is illegal in all 50 states, and legalizing it might be too drastic of a change. It can be easily abused and gives the physician immense power. Overall, the drawbacks overpower the benefits when it comes to euthanasia, and it can be too much of a risk as the patient does not always give a clear consent. However, physician assisted suicide gives the patient a free choice, and when it is used, the patient is usually able to give a clearer consent and is aware of what his actions will result in. Physician assisted suicide fulfills the patient’s request and puts the power and choice in his or her hands. Although some religious beliefs are strongly against both euthanasia and physician assisted suicide, by legalizing physician assisted suicide, many people can benefit and it should not harm the religious population. Along with the legalization of physician assisted suicide, strict guidelines should be followed in order to protect abuse and unnecessary

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