Euthanasia Essay

There comes a time in one's life when vulnerability surfaces. The first time when vulnerability transpires is when a person is brought into the light of humanity, and it reoccurs during the last dying breaths of a human being. Death can contribute to many strong emotions, such as fear and even happiness, but imagine lying on a deathbed and waiting to die? What happens when a patient has an incurable disease? There are two options available. One alternative is to cope with the disease and deal with the unbearable pain, suffering and eventually death. The other option is euthanasia, where one can be at peace. Euthanasia is defined as, "the painless killing of a patient suffering from an incurable and painful disease or in an irreversible coma" (Oxford Dictionary). There are two forms of euthanasia, active and passive euthanasia. Active euthanasia is when a medical professional or a loved one such as a spouse, relative, or family member chooses to deliberately withhold basic essential needs in order to survive (Oxford Dictionary). Hence this type of euthanasia is referred to as 'killing'. On the other hand, passive euthanasia is when a patient willingly declines medical treatments and lets nature take its course. (Oxford Dictionary). Euthanasia is a highly controversial issue, and can be viewed through many world-wide tabloids and newspapers. Over recent years euthanasia has received countless supporters who wish to legalize euthanasia. Countries that have already legalized euthanasia are; the Netherlands, Australia, Belgium and even some states in the United States of America (The Life). Euthanasia must be legalized in Canada because every human being has the right to live, so they should have the right to die, in addition it will diminish unnecessary suffering, it will impede innocent doctors from being persecuted by the law, and it will also economically benefit our society. Euthanasia has been around for many centuries. It can be traced to the brilliant