Impact of Legalization of Euthanasia

Abstract

Euthanasia (mercy killing) or assisted suicide and sometimes both have been legalized in less number of countries and states. In all jurisdictions, laws and safeguards were put in place to prevent abuse or misuse of these practices. The present paper discusses how legalizing euthanasia would harm the foundational societal importance of respect for human life. The debate surrounding the legalization of euthanasia and physician assisted suicide has become polarized. The principle arguments ‘for’ and ‘against’ euthanasia and physician assisted suicide are well recognized. Euthanasia debate is often bewildering and confusing.